Betting on harness racing: formats, rules and data from the organisers

The two formats

Pacing and trotting are the two formats named in our page brief. The organisers' rules define each one, and we cite those rules when they are read.

We do not describe the gaits here, because that description belongs to the organiser's page and we have not read it yet.

Harness Racing Australia and the state bodies are the sources for formats, rules and race results.

Where this stands: two formats are named; their definitions await the organiser.

How bets are recorded

Operators price harness races through fixed odds, tote or both. The tote pays a dividend set by the pool.

A small illustration: if A$1,000 sits in a pool after deductions and A$250 of it backs the winner, the dividend is A$4.00 per A$1. Illustrative arithmetic, not a price.

Scratchings and any resulting deductions follow each operator's rules. We cite those rules, with the date of the page.

Where this stands: tote dividends follow the pool; scratching rules are the operator's.

Where the form data comes from

Form data is the record of past runs. For harness racing the organisers publish it. A bookmaker may repeat or summarise it, and a list site may repeat that summary.

We start at the organiser's page and say which page. A figure with no organiser page behind it is not used.

How to read a form guide is set out on Form guides for horse, harness and greyhound racing: a reading order. It describes reading, not predicting.

Where this stands: organiser pages come first; summaries come second.

Where operators list harness racing

Licences are to be confirmed in the ACMA register on publication day.

Where this stands: no operator page has been read for harness racing.

What we will read next

1. Harness Racing Australia's pages on formats and rules.
2. The matching state organiser page for the same rules.
3. At least five operators' pages on harness products.

Each value will carry a URL and a date. Until then, the page remains a frame.

Where this stands: three reads close the gaps.

18+ only. Gamble responsibly.

Betting on a series of races adds up quickly. Set a total for the session and keep to it.

18+ only. Gambling can be harmful. Need help? Call Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858 (free, 24/7) or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au. To exclude yourself from licensed Australian online and phone wagering providers, register with BetStop at betstop.gov.au.

More on the tools: How BetStop works and who has to take part and Gambling can be harmful: where to get help in Australia. We are not a bookmaker and do not take bets.