I am taking a different tack to examine the nature of thorougbred handicapping. Rather than start with reading the form, comparing horses and Beyers, I am starting with the bet--and it's antithesis, the pass.
Even before any handicapping is done, our goal is to make a successful bet. We do this, in order to capitalize on our real or imagined evaluation of a race.
As I look over my accounts for the previous year, I am astounded at the sheer number of bets I make. The gall to think that on an average nine race card, I truly believe--by laying out hard-earned cash that I have a chance at hitting five or six races. There are, naturally, days that should involve this much action. Realistically, they are the exception rather than the rule.
Moreover, to reduce exposure the majority of one's bets should be straight--not exotic. Stupid to do otherwise.
I am obviously suffering from a form of handicapping dementia. The thinking goes like this, "What if a horse wins that I somewhat like and I don't have a dime on it? That would be terrible, wouldn't it?" This premise has, over the years,, cost me thousands of dollars.
Sound familiar?
Why not save your money for one or two larger bets where you have a decided edge, or a genuinely strong opinion. Otherwise, pass! There, I've said it–pass–he bettor's four-letter word.
Try it. You might like it. I'm going to. Still, somehow it seems like I'm taking the 'f' out of fun.
