Testing bet execution

[cm0use]

Hi guys, just wondering how everyone was testing bet execution via the exchange stream api ?
I was connected using my delayed stream user and was shocked when I discovered my account funds changed.
I would've expected that bet placement would've been to some test market to allow users to test their bet placement functionality.

[jabe]

There isn't a test environment, alas. You might want to have Betfair open and be logged in so you can immediately cancel test bets. I know it's far from perfect, but it may well make it less expensive!

[cm0use]

Thanks jabe... I was thinking that too.
I'm streaming my order responses (haven't been enabled for live feed yet).
I noticed my order feeds are received every 3 mins or so. Would you know if in the non delayed accounts I'd get a response live ?

[jabe]

I have to admit that the part of my program that deals with bets is still not written and I do have a full key, so I don't know the answer to that.

As for testing your bet processes, a safe-ish thing to do would be to first place small bets at odds that are unlikely to get matched, then either cancel them via Betfair or with your program; you could perhaps monitor responses and changes in odds for a while before cancelling. Another thing you might do is instead of placing any bets, have your program record or display what it would have done, betwise, without actually doing it, so you can be sure it's dealing with your Top Secret Plan as you intended.

[cm0use]

Thanks jabe. Yeh thats how I've been going about it. Occassionally I have been gettign matches due to the delayed prices.
I just can't believe there isn't a safer means to test bet execution.

[Tom001]

I am new to Betfair. Just to confirm. You saw some bets being executed even though you submitted them using the Delayed App Key?

I understand there is no sandbox but does Betfair run simulation and practice applications on their production system where execution don't deal with real money and real markets?

Thank you for your help

[jabe]

I am new to Betfair. Just to confirm. You saw some bets being executed even though you submitted them using the Delayed App Key?

I understand there is no sandbox but does Betfair run simulation and practice applications on their production system where execution don't deal with real money and real markets?

Thank you for your help

I'm afraid there is no simulation or practice option.

[ksicracing]

My solution was firstly to place outrageous bets that won't be accepted, like asking 1000/1 for the favourite. After I was happy my code was working, I changed to 10c bets so there was no pain during further testing.