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TRIFECTAS

Trifectas require handicappers to select the finish one-two-three in exact order.

Trifectas pay well, but the chances of winning are low, the cost can be high, and handicappers must be careful to balance the chances of winning with the cost and the probable payoffs. Playing this exotic bet successfully requires experience, thoughtful experience, and the confidence that comes with successful experience.

A key consideration in betting Trifectas regards the favorites. A tendency best avoided is using the favorites in trifecta boxes with other low-priced contenders.

Instead, if the favorite is legitimate, use the favorite to win only, or in combination with overlays/longshots only. If the favorite is false, or vulnerable, discard the favorite entirely.

PREFER TWO STRATEGIES

1. Bet the favorite to win only. Discard the other low-priced contenders. Box the attractive overlays and interesting longshots in the place-show holes.

2. Eliminate false and vulnerable favorites. Play the handicapper's first and second choices to win and place. Play other attractive overlays and interesting longshots to place and show.

In boxing low-priced and higher-priced horses, do not play at all unless either the favorite or second choice can be discarded.