Forecast & Tricast Bets Explained

What are Forecast Bets?

Forecast betting is where punters try to predict the first and second-placed horses in a race, in the correct order. This is known as a straight forecast.

A reverse forecast allows the punter to predict the first two finishers in any order, but - similar to an each-way bet - you are betting on two specific outcomes and so the stake is doubled. It is effectively the same as placing two straight forecasts for your chosen selections.

The odds on a forecast are calculated on the win odds for each selection, the number of runners in the race and perceived probability of your selections finishing in the first two places.

What are Tricast Bets?

Tricast betting is where punters try to predict the first, second and third-placed horses in a race, in the correct order. This is known as a straight Tricast.

A combination Tricast allows the punter to predict the first three finishers in any order. With this bet, you are backing each combination of the three horses filling the first three places (six possible combinations) so the stake is multiplied accordingly.

Key Differences between Forecast and Tricast Bets

The key difference in the forecast and Tricast is the number of positions you are trying to fill. With a forecast, it is the first two finishers, while with a Tricast it becomes the first three finishers.

Finding the solution to a forecast or Tricast is tougher on paper than simply betting the race winner, but accordingly, the payouts on winning bets are more rewarding. Experienced punters and formbook students will often be willing to try and go the extra distance in terms of research to try and master the forecast and Tricast potential.

How are Forecast and Tricast Bets Calculated?

The Computer Straight Forecast (CSF) is used instead of fixed odds to offer a fair and automated way to pay out bets based on the actual starting prices (SP) and race structure.

This method is used to determine the official return/payout on all straight forecast bets in the UK and Ireland.

The odds on a forecast/Tricast are calculated on the win odds for each selection, the number of runners in the race and perceived probability of your selections finishing in the first two/three places.

For Tricasts, returns are using a pari-mutuel (pool) betting model, not fixed odds. All bets go into the pool and a fixed percentage is the Tote's takeout.

The remaining pool is what will be distributed to winning tickets, where all correct Tricast bets share the remaining pool equally. The Tricast dividend is the return per £1 staked.

Example of a Forecast Bet in Practice

In this example, our forecast is on a handicap with eight runners. We bet Horse #3 to finish first and horse #5 to finish second and they finish in that order at 5/2fav and 17/2.

If we have placed a straight forecast for a £5 bet, the return is calculated using the Computer Straight Forecast (CSF) and the dividend could be anticipated to be £25.54 - which is the return per £1 staked.

In this case, the bet returns £117.70, which is 23.54 x 5.

Example of a Tricast Bet in Practice

Using the same example as above, this time we have added the third-placed horse, #6, to be third at odds of 100/30. So we now have a Tricast bet, for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd to be #3, #5 and #6, in that order.

In this case, the Tricast return could be £73.32 per £1 staked. In this case, the bet returns £366.60, which is 73.32 x 5.

Advantages of Forecast and Tricast Bets

Forecasts and Tricasts are a good way of adding excitement to the races. Both bets have potential for big returns for small stakes.

These types of bets appeal to punters with strong race analysis skills, but also can be used for punters enjoying a day at the races by deploying the same numbers in a series of races, for example.

If you don't want to rely on getting the order perfect, use the combination bets and adjust your stake accordingly within your budget.

Risks and Challenges of Forecast and Tricast Bets

Getting the forecast and Tricast correct isn't easy, of course, and it's fair to suggest these bets would return a lower strike rate than win/place bets might.

There is a greater risk of losing as your bet relies on multiple horses performing as anticipated.

Strategies for Forecast and Tricast Betting

Forecast and Tricasts are good bets to consider when the race features a standout favourite or a small field, as they may offer better value.

Using the reverse forecast or combination Tricast allows punters to increase coverage for differing outcomes.

Before placing these types of bets, study horse form, pace, and race conditions and be sure to manage your bankroll carefully given lower strike rates for these bet types.

FAQs about Forecast and Tricast Bets

What is the difference between straight and reverse forecasts?

A straight forecast requires the bet to pick the first two finishers in the correct order, while a reverse forecast can have the first two in either order.

Are Tricasts only available with the Tote?

No, Tricasts can be placed both with the Tote and with traditional bookmakers. The Tote's pool betting system often means their payouts are more rewarding, as bookmakers used a variation of the CSF (Computer Straight Forecast) method.

Can forecasts and Tricasts be placed online with bookmakers?

Yes, forecasts and Tricasts can be placed online with all major bookmakers, as well as the Tote.

Are dividends the same across different bookmakers?

No, many bookmakers offer forecasts and Tricasts calculated using their own proprietary algorithms, ensuring dividends can vary.

Do forecasts and Tricasts apply in international racing?

Yes, they do, though different jurisdictions may label them differently. For example in the United States the forecast is known as an Exacta and the Tricast is known as the Trifecta.