What are the odds of a UFO sighting during the London Olympics opening ceremony? Or of the final torch bearer tripping as they ascend to light the flame? Or would you prefer a more traditional wager on the battle for gold between Russia and Spain in synchronized swimming duos?
London betting houses will offer odds on almost anything, including all 26 sports at the games, from the 100-meter dash to fencing, from diving to soccer. The industry expects to handle a record 100 million pounds ($155 million) in wagers during the July 27-Aug.12 competition even some pretty outlandish parlays. “We try to cater to most people's tastes,” said Joe Crilly, a spokesman for William Hill, a gambling house that encourages punters the U.K. term for gamblers to contact them with any bet they can dream up. They also offer online gambling in 182 countries, though not in countries where it is prohibited.
William Hill offers perhaps the longest odds of the games: 1,000-to-1 that a flying saucer will appear over Olympic Stadium during Friday's opening ceremony. Tough luck if aliens don't make first contact until the next day.
Women’s soccer from July 25
Two days before the opening ceremony of London 2012, the sports kick off with the first round of women's football group matches. New Zealand take on hosts Great Britain in the opening fixture, which gets underway at 8.30pm IST.
Women’s soccer from July 25
Two days before the opening ceremony of London 2012, the sports kick off with the first round of women's football group matches. New Zealand take on hosts Great Britain in the opening fixture, which gets underway at 8.30pm IST.