Friday, August 26, 2011

Track Conditions Listed As Fast and Firm Can Spell Trouble for Handicappers

The first thing that many horse racing handicappers check when they visit their local track or OTB is the condition of the race track surface. While some people do look forward to a surface rated as muddy or off, most people betting on horse races like to wager on contests over a dry surface, meaning a fast dirt track or firm turf course.

The reason most punters like the fast dry surface is because it is easier to estimate speed and pace and also usually means that there will not be much of a bias. However, these terms are arbitrary at best and the wise prognosticator learns to check out the surface for him or her self. In the case of racing on the grass, that surface may be listed as yielding, soft, etc. That is only have the story, however. In the summer time, the turf may get very dry and there may even be sandy or bare patches.

The grass course that is subject to rain and then drying out in the hot sun can actually dome up very hard. Usually, turf courses have more give to them and favor horses with sore legs or some lameness. It is usually known as a more forgiving surface, but that can all change and is something a good handicapper should be aware of and note.

Dirt tracks present their own set of problems and challenges. They can dry out and favor certain paths, either the rail, center, or even outside paths. The only way to really be sure how your favorite oval is playing is to keep notes and be aware of trends for certain running styles and post positions to start winning. It is work, but in the real world of handicapping, the successful people work very hard and use an arsenal of tools far beyond the weekend punter.

They use breeding, inside information on trainers and jockeys, statistics, workout notes and times, and many other tools. While some pros do use one or two favorite horse racing angles to account for most of their wins, they are often aware of many things and will only bet when all the conditions are right. It is safe to wager that they will not place a large bet unless they are certain their horse isn't running against a track bias.

One of the ways that you can get a winning edge is to always keep notes about your favorite track and use them to beat the crowd of casual players.

If you want to learn how a horse owner and insider handicaps just go to http://horse-racing-handicapping.co/ and get the truth about betting on horses and winning. Bill Peterson is a former race horse owner and professional handicapper. To see all Bill's horse racing material go to Horse Racing Handicapping, Bill's handicapping store.


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