Method of estimating pari-mutuel place and show odds/payoffs prior to a race or competition

This patent relates to horse racing or any contest with a pari-mutuel payoff as practiced in the USA. To calculate the exact payoff for a place bet, it is necessary to know the entrants finishing first and second. To calculate the exact payoff for a show bet, it is necessary to know the entrants finishing first, second and third. For a given entrant, the procedure of this patent estimates the most likely amount of money bet on the other successful place entrant and on the other two successful show entrants, from which follows each estimated place and show payoff. Based on a study of 100 thoroughbred races at major racetracks, the average estimated place and show payoff (before the race) was within breakage (round off difference) of the actual payoff. Such estimates provide better information to each prospective bettor. Further, a greater amount may be bet to place and show.