Description
Book SynopsisBetting on Horse Racing For Dummies is packed with information that teaches you the ins and outs of the racetrack. You'll learn how to improve your odds, avoid common betting mistakes, and just plain have fun at the races. This is a spectator's easy-to-understand guide, so you'll have no trouble identifying the racing breeds with their strengths and weaknesses, sizing up the jockey, understanding the importance and role of a trainer, placing bets, managing money, and beyond. Can't make it to the track? No worries! You'll get the scoop on online betting with off track betting sites and apps. This update covers the latest changes in the betting world and in the racing world, so you'll know just what you're wagering. Learn about the different types of horse racing Discover and identify the best racing breedsKnow your jockeys and trainersMake smart wagers and manage your fundsFor beginning betters, Betting on Horse Racing For Dummies is your ticket to well informed wagers and a winning edge. Already know the ropes? You'll love the market trends and insider tips you'll find inside.
Table of ContentsIntroduction 1
Part 1: And They’re Off! Horse Racing and the Betting Scene 5
Chapter 1: Playing the Ponies for Pleasure and Profit 7
Chapter 2: All Horse Races Are Not Created Equal 15
Chapter 3: Getting a Handle on Parimutuel Wagering 29
Chapter 4: The Skinny on Betting 39
Chapter 5: Visiting the Racetrack 55
Part 2: How the Players and Factors Impact the Race 71
Chapter 6: Studying Horses in the Paddock and During the Post-Parade 73
Chapter 7: Riders up: The Importance of a Jockey 81
Chapter 8: Trainers and Owners: Calling the Shots 93
Chapter 9: Knowing the Track Surface and Conditions 103
Chapter 10: Zeroing In on Equipment Changes 119
Part 3: Gaining a Competitive Edge 131
Chapter 11: The Daily Racing Form: America’s Turf Authority 133
Chapter 12: Trying Your Hand at Handicapping 147
Chapter 13: Planning Your Wagers 169
Chapter 14: Making the Most of Your Bankroll 175
Part 4: Risky Business: Tackling More Advanced Bets 185
Chapter 15: Betting Exotic Wagers 187
Chapter 16: Getting Into Sophisticated Handicapping 209
Chapter 17: Handicapping Tournaments 227
Chapter 18: The Race for the Triple Crown 237
Part 5: Playing Different Ponies and Different Venues 249
Chapter 19: Harness Racing: It Will Drive You Wild 251
Chapter 20: American Quarter Horse Racing: Don’t Blink, or You’ll Miss It 267
Chapter 21: Visiting Your Local OTB: Off-Track Betting 273
Chapter 22: Betting From Home 281
Chapter 23: Viva Las Vegas 295
Part 6: The Part of Tens 307
Chapter 24: Ten Best Racetracks to Visit 309
Chapter 25: Ten Best Track Announcers of All Time 317
Chapter 26: Ten Best Horse-Racing Movies 323
Appendix: A Glossary of Horse Racing Lingo 329
Index 339
