U.S. Common Pool Wagering
Currently available on tracks in:
- Delaware (harness only)
- Illinois
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- New Mexico
- New York
- Ohio
- South Africa
- Texas
- Washington
- West Virginia
For a list of individual tracks, consult our simulcast schedule (common-pool tracks are indicated by ‘$’ symbol)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is U.S. common-pool wagering and how does it benefit me?
Common-pool wagering allows money wagered in Canada on a U.S. host track to co-mingle or merge with the host track's mutuel pool. As a result, the pools are larger and the payoffs potentially higher.
Why isn't common-pool wagering available on all U.S. tracks?
The Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency (CPMA – the arm of the Federal Government that regulates wagering on horse races) has set forth a number of requirements that each U.S. track must meet before Canadian tracks will be allowed to participate in their pools, and since the rules that govern horseracing in the United States are determined by individual states, many states will first need to change their rules.
Why are some pari-mutuel rules different from one track to another?
“Host rules apply” refers to the principle that wagers into U.S. pools are made in accordance with, and governed by, the regulations of the state in which the host track is located. These rules may vary from state to state and might be different from what we use in Canada.
Where can I find the host track's rules and regulations?
Links to the host track’s rules and regulations can be found on the right-hand side of this page.
I've heard about a teller-cancel delay. What is it?
A “teller cancel delay” allows mutuel clerks to cancel tickets issued in error after a race has started and wagering has closed. It has the effect of delaying the transmission of wagering data to the host track, which in turn delays the posting of final odds. Should a significant cancellation occur, payouts on winning bets may be affected. CPMA rules do not allow teller cancel delays in Canada.
Do I have to bet in U.S. dollars? Am I paid in U.S. dollars?
No, you can continue to wager in Canadian dollars and you will be paid in Canadian dollars.
Why do you not display the Canadian odds channel on U.S. common-pool tracks?
Since HEI plans to use the same takeout rates as U.S. tracks we can use the odds and probable-payoffs indicated on the host track's live video.
Can I participate in the guaranteed payoff wagers offered at US tracks?
Absolutely. If a track offers a guarantee on one of their pools that we offer, that guarantee also applies to Canadian customers.
Why are some of my payoffs higher than what is displayed on the video screens?
In the U.S., dollar prices are rounded to a dime whereas in Canada, those prices are rounded to a nickel. Canadian customers benefit from rounding to a nickel.
Am I required to pay U.S. tax withholding while wagering on a U.S. track?
No. Fortunately, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service's 30% withholding tax on winning wagers was repealed for Canadian citizens and therefore you will not be subject to such tax.
Why can't I bet my usual bet minimums on all U.S. common pool tracks?
HEI will make every effort to maintain the usual bet minimums, but it is ultimately a host track's decision. Some U.S. tracks and/or regulators insist that Canadian minimums be higher, specifically on carryover pools such as the Pick 6, because the Canadian dollar is lower than the American dollar. Bet minimums that differ from our usual Canadian minimums will be noted in the program.
