Betting on Pools (Tote) is different from fixed-odds betting. The variance is extreme. You might play 20 tournaments or race days in a row without a significant return, only to hit a massive dividend on the 21st.
This volatility kills bankrolls. Our Pool Risk Calculator helps you size your bets so you can survive the inevitable “droughts” while waiting for the big score.
Why Pool Betting Requires Deep Bankrolls
In fixed-odds betting (e.g., betting on favorites at 2.00), a win rate of 55% keeps you safe. In Pool betting, you are often chasing dividends of 10.00, 50.00, or 100.00.
- High Odds = Low Win Rate: If you chase high dividends, your win rate might be only 5% or 10%.
- Losing Streaks: With a 10% win rate, it is statistically normal to lose 20 or 30 times in a row.
How to use the calculator:
- Bankroll: Your dedicated pool betting funds.
- Stake per Pool: How much you spend on a typical Saturday or Tournament.
- Avg Winning Odds: Estimate your average dividend. If you mostly hit favorites, this might be 3.00. If you hunt Jackpots, it might be 50.00.
- Result: If the “Risk of Ruin” is higher than 5%, you are betting too big. You need to reduce your stake or increase your bankroll.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a safe percentage to bet on pools?
Due to the high variance, professional pool players often bet much less than fixed-odds bettors—typically 0.5% to 1% of their bankroll per event/race day.
Does ROI matter more than Win Rate?
Yes. You can have a 5% win rate and be a millionaire if your ROI is positive (meaning your few wins are massive). However, low win rates require immense psychological discipline and strict bankroll management.