Most punters like the sound of a big return from a small stake, but few understand how to balance risk and reward properly. That’s where the Patent bet comes in. It’s a smart option for racing days when you’ve got three solid picks and want a bit of coverage built in.
David Dooley doesn’t chase impossible lines. I bet with structure. A Patent suits punters who want exposure to a treble but also protection if one leg lets them down. It covers all the angles without blowing the bank. When the day’s card gives me three confident selections, this is a go-to option.
Contents
What Is a Patent in Horse Racing?
A Patent is made up of seven bets: three singles, three doubles and one treble. It’s simple in design but flexible in outcome. If one horse wins, you get a return. If two go in, you’re in business. If all three land, you’ve done the job right.
That’s why I like it. You’re not left empty-handed if one horse hits and the others fall short. When you’ve done the work and found three horses worth backing, this is one of the most practical ways to place them.
How I Build a Strong Patent Bet
The key is treating each leg like a single. If I wouldn’t back the horse on its own, it’s not going in the Patent. I go for a mix of form, ground suitability, trainer trends and race type. If all three look right on their own, they usually work well as a combination.
I’ll often build a Patent using one confident favourite, one mid-range price and one outsider with a proper angle. That way, you’ve got balance across your seven lines and a chance of a decent payout even if one price is shorter.
When to Use the Patent Bet
I use Patents when the day’s card gives me three clear bets I believe in. Usually that’s on a Saturday or festival day when the quality is higher. I avoid using Patents just to cram in bets — it only works when all three legs are strong.
It’s also ideal when I’ve got one bet early and two later. I can track how the day’s going and make decisions from there. The Patent isn’t about luck. It’s about giving yourself a smart structure when the research points in the right direction.
FAQs About Patent Horse Racing Tips
What makes a Patent bet different?
A Patent includes singles, doubles and a treble, giving you returns even if only one horse wins.
Is a Patent good for big odds?
Patents work well when one or two legs are at bigger prices. The singles and doubles give you protection if the treble doesn’t land.
How much should you stake on a Patent?
Each bet in the Patent is a separate stake. If you’re betting £1 per line, the full bet costs £7. Adjust based on your bankroll.
Are Patents better than straight trebles?
Patents are safer than trebles. A treble pays more if all three win, but a Patent returns something even if only one or two land.
Can you use a Patent each way?
Yes, an each way Patent is 14 bets instead of 7, giving place returns on top of win potential. Useful if your picks are at bigger prices.
Summary
The Patent is one of the smartest tools in a punter’s kit when used with purpose. David Dooley uses it when the form is strong, the angles are clear, and there’s value in spreading risk. It’s not a gimmick — it’s a structured way to get paid even if everything doesn’t go to plan.
When you’ve done the work and have three horses you’d back outright, the Patent gives you a smart edge over the day. Keep your focus tight, your logic sound, and let the returns take care of themselves.
