In North Carolina, betting on horse races, including the Kentucky Derby, is legal under certain conditions. The state allows pari-mutuel betting at its racetracks. Pari-mutuel betting is a system in which all the money bet is divided among those who have winning tickets after a deduction is made for track expenses and taxes.
As of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, the state has one operational thoroughbred racetrack, the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh, where live horse racing occurs during the state fair. Additionally, off-track betting facilities are available where residents can bet on horse races from around the country, including the Kentucky Derby.
To bet on the Kentucky Derby in North Carolina, you can do so at:
1. The live track during its operating season (if applicable).
2. Off-track betting facilities that are authorized by the state.
3. Online through licensed advance deposit wagering (ADW) platforms that accept North Carolina residents.
It’s important to ensure that you are using a legal and licensed facility or platform to place your bets. Always verify the current laws and regulations, as they can change, and ensure that any betting activity is conducted through legal channels.