What's Your Favorite Wagering Site?

[antigeekess]

Since Xpress Bet has locked me out of my account for moving and I have to re-register, I'm wondering if there's somewhere better to take my business anyway. Who does everyone else use, and why? Does anyone believe that one site is "better" than another for any reason? (I already have unused accounts with TwinSpires and TVG.)

[Vigorish]

I have used multiple sites including Twin Spires, You Bet (now defunct), Empire City Bets, Am Wager, and many others. When assessing what constitutes the best site, I think it's best to use multiple criteria. For me, rebates are the most important consideration. However, customer service and a good betting platform are very close seconds.

One thing I learned that is of absolute paramount importance is to do a lot of research. Look around and see what other people are saying about their experience. Read the fine print and comb through the FAQ and TOS of multiple sites. One way to find all of the potential ADW's is to visit the website of several OTB's. For example, you could visit Hialeah Park's website and click on simulcast partners. You will have a comprehensive list and you can start visiting each site.

Another suggestion is to have discussions with knowledgeable people who are either in the industry or have important contacts. I found my favorite ADW by seeking out somebody who had several years experience navigating various outlets. I did not feel comfortable telling you what my favorite ADW was in the context of this chatbox, but I can put you in contact with the person who helped me.

[lamboguy]

this is one of the bigger ADW's volume wise, parimutuel and legal

beta.rgs.net

[tanner12oz]

I play twinspires..have used some other small ones. The rebates at twinspires suck but deposits and withdraws are easy and the addition promotions (20% pick 4 bonus) make up for rebates imo

[Vigorish]

Originally Posted by tanner12oz

I play twinspires..have used some other small ones. The rebates at twinspires suck but deposits and withdraws are easy and the addition promotions (20% pick 4 bonus) make up for rebates imo

I still play at Twinspires as one of my ADW's. As you noted, the rebates are miserable, even for the higher tier customers. However, Twin Spires does have some positive attributes including the one's you noted.

What I like most about Twin Spires is some of the technology they integrated from YouBet. For example, I love the Wager Pad Pro, which is the fastest and most intuitive wagering client I have found. Next, I love the way that BRIS Super Stats are built into the Express client. I find these statistics especially handy and useful for maiden races.

Their live programming is excellent. They have an comprehensive. database of past races, which is easily accessible. Also, you can get free past performances for simply making a $2 wager on one race.

Finally, customer service is very responsive. The wait times are virtually non-existent. Their workers are generally well-educated on corporate policy, although many seem clueless about the finer nuances of their products and their customers preferences. Unfortunately, most ADW employees fail to understand the wants and needs of horseplayers. The best customer service I have received is through high rebate ADW's, possibly because the customer service agents tend to be horseplayers!

Bottom line: I would recommend Twin Spires, but not as your primary ADW. There are many features that make Twin Spires a worthwhile site when used in conjunction with other ADW's. At least that is how I am currently using the site.

With respect to the post about RGS, they seem to be the king of the hill for the 7 figure horseplayer. It is downright amazing how many employees they have on staff, who are tasked with serving less than 100 horseplayers. Also, their rebates are second to none.

[ubercapper]

Originally Posted by lamboguy

this is one of the bigger ADW's volume wise, parimutuel and legal

beta.rgs.net

Does anyone know if RGS still has state restrictions? Years ago they could not take customers from Kentucky.

[Fingal]

That's the thing, state restrictions. I see all these signup benefits & rebates from different ADWs, but if you live in certain draconian states ( for me it's California ) you get nada in the way of benefits.

[davew]

what pools do you use most often?

betting platforms are so different at most.

My favorite for WPS pools
is different than my favorite for superfectas.

[cutchemist42]

No rebates, but having betfair.com open in a 2nd tab and comparing odds has helped me land some great horses relative to the track odds. Of course you're basically limited to Win though.

[classhandicapper]

Originally Posted by Vigorish

With respect to the post about RGS, they seem to be the king of the hill for the 7 figure horseplayer. It is downright amazing how many employees they have on staff, who are tasked with serving less than 100 horseplayers. Also, their rebates are second to none.

I can't even find their rebate schedule listed.

[lamboguy]

Originally Posted by classhandicapper

I can't even find their rebate schedule listed.

you can take my word for it, along with Elite, they pay higher than anyone else.

Kirk Brooks invented the "highest rebates"

[classhandicapper]

Originally Posted by lamboguy

you can take my word for it, along with Elite, they pay higher than anyone else.

Kirk Brooks invented the "highest rebates"

It's one of those "million or more" handle shops right?

[BetPTC]

Yes, the average player can't just get in at RGS.

We pride ourselves on great customer service and excellent cash back rates. Check out BetPTC.com, where you don't have to wager seven figures (or even six) to gain membership.

[antigeekess]

Thanks to all for your suggestions. Will be making a decision within the next week. Very curious to learn more about rebates and if they're applicable to us minnows.

[lamboguy]

Originally Posted by BetPTC

Yes, the average player can't just get in at RGS.

We pride ourselves on great customer service and excellent cash back rates. Check out BetPTC.com, where you don't have to wager seven figures (or even six) to gain membership.

you guys are great for the small to midrange player. i think that these days you are carrying just about everything other than NYRA. you probably have the very best racing platform, at least i think so.