Golf Betting Strategy: Mastering the Each Way Market

By Contributor | Golf | October 8th, 2014

Trying to pick an individual winner from a list of over 100 players is a daunting prospect for any punter. It's a factor that can make golf betting in particular a frustrating experience, but it can also produce big rewards for those willing to invest their time and patience. 'Each way' betting in golf allows you to cover more bases, and ultimately increase your chances of seeing a return.

'Each Way' Market Explained

'Each way' betting means placing a stake on a certain player not just to win, but to place in an event. The number of places that will be paid out depends on the individual bookmaker. For example, placing a £5 'each way' bet on Justin Rose to win the 2015 US Masters at 20/1 with Ladbrokes Sports, would see a return of £135. The win alone would bring in £105, but since Ladbrokes Sports are paying out 1/4 of the odds on up to five places, punters would receive an additional £30 on odds of 5/1. If the Englishman was to finish in the top five but not win, the bookmaker would still pay out £30.

Player Form

It’s crucial to do research when placing 'each way' bets - rank outsiders offered at huge prices can be like a red rag to a bull. The first factor to consider when pondering a bet on a golf tournament is the form of the players coming into an event. The perfect player to study here is Jim Furyk and his 2014 campaign. The American may not have won on the PGA Tour in 2014, but the former US Open champion finished in the top five on eight occasions. This consistency would have made him a top prospect for 'each way' betters.

Player Record

A player’s record on a particular course or at a particular tournament can also be pivotal. Some golfers raise their game at certain events, even if their form is not great on paper when teeing off. Heading into the 2009 US Masters, Angel Cabrera’s most notable performance of the year had been a 13th placed finish at the Northern Trust Open. Nevertheless, the Argentine had registered three top ten finishes at Augusta in the past and he went on to win the tournament at lengthy odds. He then featured in the final top ten twice over the next five years, including a second place finish in 2013. Identifying low profile players who thrive in a specific environment is key to 'each way' betting.

Finding Value

When placing an 'each way' bet, it’s best to shop around to be sure you’re getting the best value. Bookies will extend their place terms in the run up to big tournaments, so double check the number of paid places before being tempted by long odds.

For all available odds and golf betting markets, visit Ladbrokes Sports today!