Albury bookie Kevin Walsh is more used to betting on horses than pollies, but said incumbent members, like Sussan Ley, will always have shorter odds. 

While Albury's Lynn Retford said she thinks it will be a close race.

"Kevin's quite popular," she said.

"He did quite well in the [Albury Council] election, but I suppose the issue is can he handle being mayor and a political candidate?"

Despite that, Mrs Retford would put her money on Mr Mack winning. 

While Table Top's Beverley Blair believes there's a "good chance" the electorate will stick with long-term member Ms Ley. 

"I think Sussan does a good job," she said.

For some punters, personal relationships played a factor in their decision, with Mr Mack's wife Jill giving him good odds.

IN OTHER NEWS: 

The issue even divided families with the Tanner cousins and their friend Hayden Wyllie split on who they would back to win. 

Maddison, 24, Joe, 21, and Chloe, 20, all thought Ms Ley had a better chance of crossing the finish line with the most votes. 

But Hayden Wyllie said he'd put his money on Mr Mack edging in front, while Jake Tanner sided with Mr Wyllie.

Neither Ms Ley nor Mr Mack were able to back a winner in the Country Championship qualifier on Saturday. 

Mr Mack's favourite to win, Forever NewYork managed a podium position finishing third in the race. 

While Ms Ley's pick Waiting For A Mate came in 11th.

The duo are likely hoping they are more on the money when it comes to the election. 

Mr Mack said he'd back himself to win the seat, saying voters were ready for an independent to lead.

"I wouldn't have put myself up if I didn't think there were good odds [of me winning]," he said. 

"It's time for a change."

While Ms Ley conservatively said the odds were 50:50 between her and Mr Mack. 

She said she never goes into an election presuming she'll win. 

"I'd say it's even," Ms Ley said. 

"In my first election it was even and I won by 200 votes. I said then that every election after I'd treat like that, and take nothing for granted."

Receive our daily newsletter straight to your inbox each morning from The Border Mail. Sign up here.