Michigan state law<\/a> requires all online horse racing betting websites and apps to be licensed through the Michigan Gaming Control Board.<\/p>\n\nMichigan Off-Track Betting Locations<\/h2>\n \n\n
\n Since Northville Downs shut down on February 10, 2024, there aren\u2019t any more Michigan horse racing tracks, nor any off-track betting locations in the state.<\/p>\n\n
Detroit Horse Racing Betting<\/h2>\n \n\n
\n All Detroit horse racing betting must be performed online. Detroit's commercial casinos have retail sportsbooks but do not allow pari-mutuel horse racing betting.<\/p>\n\n
Horse Racing Michigan Events<\/h2>\n \n\n
\n The following historic racing events aren\u2019t located in Michigan but will be heavily bet online on Michigan racebooks.<\/p>\n\n
\n Kentucky Derby\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n The Kentucky Derby is arguably the most iconic horse race in history. The prestigious event, which features three-year-old thoroughbreds, is held on the first Saturday in May at Churchhill Downs race track in Louisville, Kentucky.<\/p>\n\n
\n It is the first leg of the Triple Crown, and the distance run by its contestants is 1.25 miles. The winner receives a blanket of red roses and $3.1 million.<\/p>\n\n
\n It is famous for its fierce competition and distinctive traditions, such as mint juleps, fancy hats, and outfits.<\/p>\n\n
\n Breeder\u2019s Cup Classic\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n The Breeders' Cup Classic is a prominent thoroughbred race nicknamed \u201cthe ultimate challenge\u201d because it is run on a challenging 1.25-mile dirt track. The horses in the race are often a mix of experienced older horses and up-and-coming three-year-olds.<\/p>\n\n
\n It is held in late October or early November and is a leg in the Breeders\u2019 Cup World Championships. The 2024 edition will feature a total purse of $6 million, with the winner set to receive over $3 million.<\/p>\n\n
\n Preakness Stakes\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n The second leg of the Triple Crown, the Preakness Stakes, is a race for three-year-old thoroughbred horses. Known as \u201cThe Middle Jewel of the Triple Crown”, it is held on the third Saturday of May at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland.<\/p>\n\n
\n Horses run 1 3\/16 miles on flat dirt to determine a winner. Last year, the champion received $900,000 (60% of the total purse).<\/p>\n\n
\n The 2024 purse has yet to be announced.<\/p>\n\n
\n Belmont Stakes\n <\/h3>\n \n\n
\n The Belmont Stakes is the third and final race of the Triple Crown and is referred to as the \u201cTest of the Champion\u201d due to its grueling 1.5-mile length. It is considered unpredictable because many Kentucky Derby and Preakness champions have fallen short in the event.<\/p>\n\n
\n The purse of the 2024 race, held on June 8, will be $2 million. Because of its host, Saratoga, this year\u2019s edition will be 1.25 miles. The race started in 1867 and isn\u2019t being run at Belmont Park (hosted since 1905) due to the track undergoing renovations.<\/p>\n\n
ThePuntersPage Final Say<\/h2>\n \n\n
\n Online wagering on winning horses can be tough, but with this guide, you\u2019ll understand the basics and know what to look for when selecting a racebook. All four betting options reviewed by our experts at ThePuntersPage are reputable and provide plenty of handicapping tips to help prepare you for race day.<\/p>\n\n
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