The Tote is different from the Bookmakers in that it is betting from a pool of money as opposed to fixed odds returns. Wherever you place your bet, it goes into a pool, and how much you receive if you have a winning ticket will depend on how much money is in the pool.
The Tote was bought by Betfred in 2011 for a period of 7 years. Since 2018, there has been a movement by JRC, several independent tracks and ARC to take the Tote back, with the intention of providing a larger financial return to racegoers.
Bookmakers
Ludlow has various sites for bookmakers on the racecourse. You will find the majority in front of the Jubilee Stand and/or by the Paddock or in the Fairway Café Area. Each bookmaker will have a stand displaying odds, and someone to take the bets and to pay out any winning bets.
Where to Place a Bet at Ludlow Race Club
There are betting windows inside and outside the Clive Pavilion plus bookmakers on the rails by the Club Enclosure.
Grandstand & Paddock
There is a window adjacent to the Weighing Room plus a room inside the Grandstand Bar.
Course Enclosure
There is a stand inside the Fairway Bar and Café.
How to Bet with an On-Course Bookmaker
The RCA and the bookmaking association have agreed the following terms for all bookmakers offering each way betting on course.
Non-Handicaps
5-7 runners, one quarter the odds 1,2
8+ runners, one fifth the odds 1, 2, 3
Handicaps
5-7 runners, one quarter the odds 1,2
8-11 runners, one fifth the odds 1, 2, 3
12-15 runners, one quarter the odds 1, 2, 3
16+ runners, one quarter the odds 1, 2, 3, 4
All bookmakers must display on their boards whether they are betting each way or to win only.