Gambling on Myself

We all have the visions of the big score, lottery numbers popping up, or our Dutch Uncle leaving us a hunk of dough. But that's not the truth. Maybe the Dutch Uncle; but don't wait for someone to kick off before you make your own run. I've tried every tip sheet, tipster, and Green Sheet's guaranteed to make your day. - But after the smoke clears and truth is at hand. There are no shortcuts or mojo bags to help you make the big score. - So, after years of playing the ponies, betting football, and not putting in enough time to do homework. You better make changes now before your wagering will have to take a break.

I remember as a younger man that good handicappers used to watch replays over to spot troubled trips. - Long before ADW's and places where you could watch replays. Players use to set their DVR for watching races at their local track. - Now you can watch as many as you want by clicking the "replay" button and taking copious notes. - Yes, it worked then and more so even more today. Trip handicapping is worth its weight in gold. Keep an open mind and don't just take notes on horses you wager. The idea is to find runners who may yield a big price next out and all you have to do is watch and make a few notes. If you're not doing so, jump on it and get to work.

Pick four tracks you follow. Now, take notes and watch three of them. - Of the three tracks, dig in deep on two. This alone will keep your handicapping stronger as you're not taking notes on things that didn't happen; that horse caught in a blind switch, checked up and still came on late, showed good speed on a day that didn't favor early foot. - You get the picture.

You finally have a few "problem runners" who are coming back to race. - Give extra credit for a solid work over the track. The rider stays aboard. Staying on the same surface. - Steer clear of first time Blinkers, front wraps only, and if they are getting a little longer distance to run maybe the connections found out something you may have missed by re-watching the races.

Now, the big day is here. - If your horse is 8-1 or better, consider making a 30% - 70% wager. 30% to win and 70% to place. - If you're not getting blockbuster odds, there is no harm in making your wager to win on that 5-2 shot. - If you saw $7 on the ground you'd sure bend over and pick it up, wouldn't you? - If you have a $100 as a bankroll, make it a 50/50 breakdown before pulling the trigger.

Handicapping can be one of the most exciting ways to get your gamble in. - You've followed up from last race watching replays, taken notes detailing the race trouble, and you've spread your bankroll out between the two runners that day. - I had three horses on the same day. - I bet to place on the first and rallied a $6 place wager. - It all went on the next at 12-1 to place, and he actually won! - One more and my betting was complete. When he won and paid $20 and $7.60 to place, and I had all of my eggs to place. A day I'll remember for quite some time, and I'll buckle down and do my homework mentioned above to have a great day at the races!

Best of luck from your friends at Winning Ponies! - If you want to play multiple tracks, I'd suggest downloading the Winning Ponies E-Z Win Forms. Color coded, easy to use, and it allows you to get a comprehensive glimpse into how the race will take shape. - See you in the winner's circle!