Your Complete Beginner’s Guide to Off-Track Betting at CJ’s Sports Grill & Turf Club in Riverside

Are you curious about horse race betting but not sure where to start? At CJ’s Sports Grill & Turf Club, we make it easy — and exciting — for beginners and pros alike to jump into the action with our Off-Track Betting (OTB) program. Located in the heart of San Diego, CJ’s is your go-to destination for watching and wagering on live horse races every week.

We offer self-service terminals and a full-service Racebook counter, plus a supportive team ready to guide you through every step of the betting process.

Start with Our Free Virtual Pamphlet

To help you feel confident before placing your first wager, we’ve created a comprehensive virtual pamphlet available right on our Racebook page. This beginner-friendly guide is designed to walk you through:

  • How off-track betting works

  • The different types of bets available

  • Tips for understanding the racing schedule

  • Important horse racing terminology

Whether you’re planning to bet casually or want to dive deeper into the sport, our pamphlet has everything you need to get started with horse betting in San Diego.

Learn the Basics of Horse Race Wagering

Before you place a bet, it’s helpful to understand your options. Our horse race wagering guide covers:

  • Win, Place, Show: Learn how basic bets work and which offer better odds.

  • Exacta, Trifecta & Superfecta: Dive into exotic wagering for higher payouts.

  • How to Place Bets: Follow easy steps for placing your first wager at CJ’s.

  • Betting Terminology: Understand key racing terms like “morning line odds,” “scratch,” and “chalk.”

By learning the lingo and strategy behind racing, you’ll feel more confident and enjoy the excitement even more.

Know the Etiquette of Off-Track Betting

We’re proud to maintain a respectful, sportsmanlike environment at CJ’s. That’s why our OTB guide also includes helpful tips on betting etiquette, such as:

  • Being mindful of time at self-serve terminals

  • Respecting other guests’ wagers and privacy

  • Asking staff for help if you’re unsure (they’re happy to assist!)

Whether you’re new to OTB or just brushing up, a little courtesy goes a long way in creating a great experience for everyone.

New to OTB? Let Our Friendly Staff Help You Get Started

Placing your first wager doesn’t have to be intimidating. Just head to our Racebook counter, and one of our knowledgeable staff members will walk you through the process step by step. We’ll explain how to read the program, place a bet, and track your horse during the race.

Ready to Try Exotic Bets?

Once you’ve got the hang of simple bets, you might want to try exotic wagers like the Quinella, Pick 3, or Daily Double. Our virtual guide explains how these work, what they pay, and how to structure your bets for the best chance at a bigger return.

Visit CJ’s for the Best Horse Betting Experience in Riverside

At CJ’s Sports Grill & Turf Club, we go beyond just being an OTB venue — we offer fantastic food, a full bar, and over 60 TVs so you can catch all your favorite sports in one place. Plus, our outdoor patio makes CJ’s a perfect year-round destination for locals and tourists alike.

🕒 OTB Open Wednesday–Sunday starting at 10 a.m.
📍 CJ’s Location & Contact Info

Ready to place your first bet? Explore our Racebook now and plan your next visit to CJ’s — Riverside’s home for horse racing and sports fans.

Back to News