What Does Tic-Tac Stand for in Betting?

Tic-tac is the sign language used by bookmakers to communicate odds and other information at racecourses. It is a fast and efficient way of conveying prices and betting moves among the bookies and their staff. Tic-tac is also a part of the racing culture and heritage, as it has been around for decades. In this article, we will explore the origins, meanings, and examples of tic-tac in betting.

The Origins of Tic-Tac

The exact origins of tic-tac are unclear, but some sources suggest that it dates back to the 18th century, when bookmakers used hand signals to avoid being overheard by the authorities or their competitors. Others claim that tic-tac evolved from the gestures used by traders in the stock exchange or the fish market. Whatever the case, tic-tac became a common feature of the betting ring in the 19th and 20th centuries, especially before the advent of mobile phones and the internet.

The Meanings of Tic-Tac

Tic-tac is a system of hand gestures that correspond to different odds and phrases in betting. The gestures are usually performed with white gloves or sticks to make them more visible and distinctive. The gestures are also accompanied by verbal calls, often using cockney rhyming slang or other wordplay. For example, evens (1/1) is indicated by extending the forefingers on each hand and moving them up and down in opposite directions, while also saying “levels, you devils!” or “Major Stevens”. Some other common gestures and calls are:

• 2/1: Right hand touches nose, while saying “bottle” or “bice”.
• 3/1: Hand to chin, palm facing down, while saying “carpet”.
• 4/1: Right hand draws an L shape in front of body, while saying “rouf”.
• 5/1: Both hands touch chest, while saying “hand” or “handful”.
• 6/4: Back of right hand to left ear, while saying “ear’ole” or “exes to rouf”.
• 10/3: As 3/1 then touch fingertips in front of face, while saying “Burlington Bertie” or “scruffy and dirty”.

There are many variations and regional differences in tic-tac, as well as some gestures that are specific to certain bookmakers or events. For a more comprehensive list of tic-tac gestures and calls, you can refer to this article.

The Examples of Tic-Tac

Tic-tac is not only used to communicate odds, but also to signal other information, such as:

• Betting moves: If a lot of money comes in on a certain selection, the bookmaker may lower the odds on that selection and raise the odds on the opposite selection. This is indicated by pointing at the selection with one hand and moving the other hand across the body.
• Money to be put on: If a bookmaker wants to place a bet with another bookmaker, he may signal the amount of money and the selection he wants to bet on. For example, if he wants to bet £500 on a 5/1 selection, he may touch his chest with both hands (5/1) and then hold up five fingers (500).
• Who has put it on: If a bookmaker wants to know who has placed a large bet on a certain selection, he may point at the selection with one hand and then touch his ear with the other hand. This means “who’s ear’ole?” or “who’s listening?”.

To Sum Up

Tic-tac is not only a practical tool for bookmakers, but also a fascinating aspect of racing history and culture. It is a skill that requires speed, accuracy, and coordination. It is also a spectacle that attracts attention and curiosity from spectators and punters. Although tic-tac is becoming less common due to technological advances and online betting, it is still practiced by some bookmakers who value tradition and nostalgia.