The Bet and The Cash In

Cashing in your ticket is almost as much fun as that split second when your calculated choice crosses the finish line by 3 lengths…. not as much adrenaline but lots of confidence and self assurance. And all that only lasts until you pick up the racing form to figure out the next race.

When betting there are some important rules:

1) Keep it simple. Bet only what you know and only what you can remember. I’ve seen bettors bet the wrong race, wrong track or wrong numbers because their bets are too complicated.

2) Don’t place too many bets on the same race. If you do then you end up betting against yourself or your winnings won’t cover your bets.

3) Bet that type of bet you are comfortable with and how much you are comfortable with losing. If you are a WIN bettor stick with it, if you bet PLACE or SHOW then that’s your bet. If you like trifectas and supers….. get ready to take out a second mortgage. They are hard to fund and hard to hit.

4) Never change your bet once you circle it in the program. You’ll usually regret it.

5) Watch for OMEN bets. This may sound silly or illogical but just be aware how often this works. If there’s a horse with your wife or girl friend’s name or one of your kids names or parents name…. you got to go for it! Sometimes it’s just a name that stands out…. like “Hold The Beans” or “Badda Bing”.

6) If you are walking back to your seat and realize that you placed the wrong bet always put that ticket in your pocket and go back and place another bet the right way. I’ve heard too many people make the wrong bet and win a big one.

7) After you place your bet count your change before leaving the window. Some cashiers will count money back to you in a slow and choppy method and if you are in a hurry to get back to your seat you just may leave them an unexpected tip. Also check your ticket numbers before leaving too.

8) Have a budget, only bet what you can afford to lose, bet less when you are on a loosing streak, bet more when you are betting with the track’s money and don’t bet too many tracks at once….. you spent your money you should enjoy the race.

9) Be serious but have fun.

10) And finally, know your horse’s name…. they are much more than just a number.