When you start digging deeper into horse racing betting, you’ll quickly find that there’s a whole world beyond simple outright or place bets. Combination wagers are especially popular with bettors who want flexibility without committing to large, complex stakes. One of the most beginner-friendly options in this category is the Patent bet.
A Patent bet is ideal for bettors who like following a few strong contenders, watching how races unfold, and still having a chance of a return even if not every selection comes true. It’s a common stepping stone for those learning how to read
horse racing results and explore more strategic wagers.
What Is A Patent Bet
A Patent bet is a multiple bet involving three selections, all placed as outright bets. It consists of seven individual bets combined into one wager.
These bets include:
Because singles are included, a Patent bet can trigger a return if at least one horse wins (provided the odds are above evens and the stake is sufficient).
For example, a £1 Patent costs £7 in total. Many bettors use smaller unit stakes or apply free bets when trying this wager for the first time.
How a Patent Bet Works in Practice
To place a Patent bet, the bettor starts by choosing three horses in three different races. These selections are usually made after analysing form, ground conditions, jockey bookings, and trends from recent horse racing results.
Each horse is backed as:
•
An individual outright bet (single)
•
Part of two different doubles
If just one chosen horse wins, the single returns. If two win, the singles and doubles pay out. If all three win, every part of the Patent lands, including the treble.
This makes a Patent bet particularly appealing when you plan to
watch horse racing throughout the day and have confidence in a small number of runners.
Why Bettors Choose Patent Bets
The main appeal of a Patent bet is the fact that there are multiple bets that can be successful. Unlike trebles or accumulators, you don’t need perfection to get a return.
Key advantages include:
•
Return triggered even if only one horse wins
•
Lower total stake than larger combination bets
•
Ideal for short-priced or well-fancied selections
Patent bets are popular with horse racing bettors, especially during big race meetings where the form feels solid and predictable.
Things to Keep in Mind When Placing Patent Bets
While Patent bets are relatively lower risk, odds matter. If your selection is at shorter odds, the return may not cover the full stake. That’s why many bettors aim for horses priced at even money or higher.
It’s also important to remember that all selections must be outright bets, meaning there’s no place element involved. Reviewing racecards and previous horse racing results can help you avoid unreliable favourites and improve your chances.
Using Patent Bets Strategically
Patent bets work best when you have three strong selections rather than a long list of maybes. They’re often used when bettors want exposure across a race card but don’t want the higher cost of bets like a Yankee or Canadian.
They’re also a smart way to use
free bets, as the multiple components can maximise value without risking your own bankroll. Many bettors place Patents on days when they plan to sit back, watch horse racing live, and bet in a different way than with standard outright betting.
Final Thoughts
A Patent bet is one of the most accessible and practical combination bets in horse racing. It rewards good judgment, doesn’t require every horse to win, and offers a smooth introduction to more advanced betting formats.
By combining careful race analysis, awareness of current horse racing results, and smart use of free bets, a Patent bet can add structure and confidence to your betting strategy, without overcomplicating things.