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Del Mar’s New CAW Policy: A Step Toward Fairer Wagering
- Updated: July 29, 2025
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On July 29, 2025, Del Mar Thoroughbred Club announced a significant change to its wagering protocols, closing win pools to computer-assisted wagering (CAW) players at two minutes to post, starting July 31. This move aims to address concerns about late odds shifts and enhance the betting experience for all horseplayers.
What is Computer-Assisted Wagering (CAW)?
Computer-assisted wagering involves the use of sophisticated algorithms and software to analyze betting pools in real time. CAW players, often high-volume bettors, leverage these tools to identify value in odds, placing large bets—often on exotic combinations like trifectas or pick fives—moments before a race begins. These systems scan live tote data, assess probabilities, and execute bets automatically, allowing for rapid decision-making that human bettors cannot match.
Advantages of CAW for Users
CAW players gain a significant edge over traditional bettors due to their access to real-time data and automation. Their software can detect inefficiencies in betting pools, such as underbet horses with favorable odds, enabling them to place strategic bets that maximize returns. Additionally, CAW bettors often receive substantial rebates—sometimes 10% or higher—due to their high wagering volumes, effectively reducing the track’s takeout rate. For example, a CAW player losing 5% on bets could still profit 5% after rebates, a financial advantage unavailable to most recreational bettors. This combination of speed, precision, and rebates allows CAW players to consistently achieve higher win rates, with some reports indicating average returns exceeding 105% before rebates.
Impact on the General Betting Population
The dominance of CAW players has raised concerns among recreational bettors and industry stakeholders. Their late bets, often placed seconds before post time, can cause dramatic odds shifts, frustrating casual players who rely on earlier odds to make decisions. In 2022, the top 17 CAW accounts reportedly accounted for 14% of Del Mar’s win pool, highlighting their influence. These shifts increase the effective takeout for non-CAW bettors, as they face less favorable odds by the time races start. Over time, this has led to declining handle from non-CAW players in nine of Del Mar’s 11 largest betting pools from 2018 to 2022, threatening the sport’s financial health.
Benefits of the New Policy for Racing
Del Mar’s decision to close win pools to CAW players at two minutes to post aims to mitigate these issues. By requiring CAW bets earlier, the policy reduces late odds fluctuations, creating a more transparent and predictable betting environment for all players. This aligns with similar measures at tracks like the New York Racing Association, which banned CAW win pool betting inside two minutes. Del Mar’s approach includes financial incentives, offering higher rebates for bets placed before the two-minute mark, encouraging CAW players to act earlier. This should stabilize odds, boost confidence among recreational bettors, and potentially increase overall handle, supporting purses and the racing product. Industry experts, including the Thoroughbred Idea Foundation, view this as a step toward balancing the wagering market, preserving the sport’s appeal for casual fans while accommodating high-volume players.
Looking Ahead
Del Mar’s proactive stance reflects a broader industry effort to address CAW’s impact. By curbing late odds shifts, the track aims to foster a fairer, more engaging betting experience. As the 2025 summer meet unfolds, the policy’s success will be measured by its ability to retain recreational bettors and sustain the vibrant atmosphere that defines “where the turf meets the surf.”
Sources: Del Mar Press, Bloodhorse, Thoroughbred Daily News
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