Off Track Betting in Saskatchewan

If you’ve ever asked yourself what off track betting (OTB) is, you’re not alone. Simply put, Off Track Betting refers to legally-approved betting on horse racing outside of a race track. It’s a way for fans to play the ponies when there are no live races nearby, or when they want to bet on a race happening in another location.

2606 Lorne Avenue, Saskatoon, SK

RACERS LOUNGE at SureStay Plus Hotel
777 Albert Street, Regina, SK

Though it was legal to place a wager this way in the United States as far back as the 1970s, off track betting establishments (often referred to as teletheatres) only became operational in Canada in 1989, after years of many unsuccessful attempts. Since then, the OTB industry has flourished across the country, with hundreds of facilities popping up nationwide.

With so many great stakes races run at the biggest tracks around North America, it’s easy to see why off track betting is so popular. Fans cannot easily jet off to Churchill Downs in Kentucky or Pimlico in Maryland, to take in a day of history-making races… though many have dreamed of it! 

Teletheatres offer enthusiasts the next best alternative; watching the races live, via a simulcast*, in a location where they can enjoy the thrill of the chase in the company of other aficionados.

If you’ve ever experienced the fast-paced thrill of live racing, you know the eager anticipation of an anxious crowd and the lead-up to post-time can be half the fun. Pair that with appetizer platters for the gang and ice cold beverages, and it’s almost like being at the track.

What exactly is a simulcast?

A simulcast is a live broadcast of a horse race which allows wagering at two or more sites. It involves the transmission of wagering information to a central site so that all bettors may bet in the same pool.

In case you're wondering...

Yes, this is an extremely secure way to wager. In Canada, off-track betting is federally regulated by the Canadian Pari-Mutuel Agency (CPMA), and is responsible to ensure the integrity and fairness with betting systems. The same agency is responsible for administering drug tests to the animals and enforces the industry’s anti-drug policies.