What Are Examples of Friendly Wagers?
Making a bet with a family member, friend or coworker on a sport’s game and having the loser wear a certain outfit or buy dinner is an example of a friendly wager. A friendly wager is distinct from a serious wager in that the bet is made between people who have a personal relationship, and the winnings are typically insignificant and non-monetary.
Community politicians often make friendly wagers when teams from their home states or home towns compete. In the 2014 NHL playoffs, the mayors of Chicago and Minnesota made a friendly wager when their teams met. The prize for the winner was food and beer. Governors and mayors also routinely wager on Super Bowl games between teams from their respective areas.
Average people and businesses engage in friendly wagers as well. Friends often bet when their teams play each other. Prizes may include being forced to do a special favor or unwelcome chore. Even husbands and wives may make friendly wagers that pop up during disagreements. Companies sometimes make friendly wagers with rival businesses to generate publicity and support for certain causes. Companies engaged in a charity race or event may make a friendly challenge that goes beyond the event itself.
