The 2024 Maryland 5 Star Equestrian event at Fair Hill is set to make history by offering sports betting on the sport for the first time in US history. A start-up firm, Crab Sports, will provide betting markets on the four-day eventing competition, allowing attendees to bet on the sport’s three disciplines: dressage, cross-country, and show jumping.
The exclusive rights to offer sports betting markets at the Fair Hill event were granted to Crab by the Sport & Entertainment Corporation of Maryland. These markets include overall betting on the event in both 5 Star (CCI5-L) and 3 Star (CCI3-L) competition classifications, event winner, Top 3, Top 5, and Top 10.
Eventing is a well-established Olympic sport where a single horse and rider team competes across three disciplines. The sport dates back to a cavalry test but was introduced as a sport at the 1912 Olympic Games in Stockholm, Sweden. The Concours Complet International 5 Star (CCI5*) designation is considered the pinnacle of the Olympic sport of Eventing, with men and women competing against each other. The Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill is one of only two 5 Star level equestrian events of its kind in the US.
Craig Williams, the Director of Crab Sports, expressed excitement about being appointed as the exclusive sports betting partner for the event. He mentioned that partnering with local businesses and events is a core aspect of their work, and this collaboration allows them to connect with their Maryland customers in meaningful ways.
The President and CEO of MARS Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill, Jeff Newman, also shared his excitement about the partnership with Crab Sports, stating that it brings a new level of excitement and engagement to the event. Bettors can register for the event through Crab’s website or app, with new customers receiving a $500 bet insurance offer that gives them a second chance if their initial wager does not result in a win.
In conclusion, the 2024 Maryland 5 Star Equestrian event at Fair Hill is poised to make history by offering sports betting on the sport for the first time in the US. This partnership between Crab Sports and the event organizers brings new opportunities for attendees and fans to engage with the event in a unique and exciting way.