Handicapping / Graduation Day

Put on your cap and gown. It's time to learn the process of becoming a full-fledged horseplayer. - In this chapter as you walk down the aisle to move to the next level. Here are some wagering tips that you'll want to keep your eyes peeled on.

1. - Before betting, go back and take a look at how the track has been playing the past week.- Most ADW's have race replays for free.

2. - Know the weather conditions for your selected tracks. - When the track is sloppy and off the turf, this can affect your handicapping greatly.

3. - If you have ten races you're going to play. - Cut it back to your favorite six races. - From there, bet your best 4 races. This process will allow you to only bet your best selections and keep your bankroll growing.

4. - If you like turf races know which riders and trainers have the best percentage on the weeds.

5. - Look for trainers fresh off the claim. - They must have thought something of this runner to talk an owner about spending $10,000.

6. - A rider switch to a top percentage jock can make all the difference. - Their agents will book them for the best possible chances as they only make money when the rider does.

7. - Take a look at the trainer stats. - Some do better with 2-yr-olds, claimers, turf - dirt switches, and equipment changes.

8. - In bigger races look for runners coming off a layoff on the turf with a few solid works.

9. - Look for bad trips found in the comment lines at the end of the past performances.

10. - Cutting back in distance, and pay close attention to dropping down in class.

11. - Look for ship-in runners with last race troubles.

12. - First-time two-year-old's for top-shelf barns - Looking for top riders who take the mount, and good workouts from tracks or training centers shipping in to run.

13. - Speed horses going 6f - 7f stretching out to longer distances. - Sometimes it's magic with added distance. They can wire a field as the fractions can be slower.

14. - Top trainers making a claim. - They were watching this runner and can move them up with different care and training.

15. - The middle move. - A runner makes a good charge and just holds in place (ex) 4 3/4 - 5 1/2 - 4 1/2 - 4 head. - This is a sign of race that has a horse moving forward.

16. - When a horse is a beaten favorite and runs back in the same conditions, or better when they drop in class.

17. - Pay attention to a runner working multiple times. - If there are 3 works take a look at the middle work. It is usually the best. - Also, pay attention to how many days in between works and how many from the last work to race day. - If they are on a 7-day spacing and then move up to come back 5 days to race. - Keep your eyes peeled for a top-notch effort.

There will be plenty of little-handicapping notes and over time you'll develop your own. - These are a few of mine and before long you'll be playing the greatest sport. - Now toss your tassel to other side of your cap and get to the races. - What are ya' waiting for? - It's almost post time! - Best of luck from Winning Ponies!