Horse racing is one of the oldest sports in existence and has evolved from a primitive contest of speed and stamina between two animals into a spectacle with large fields of runners, sophisticated electronic monitoring equipment and huge sums of money on the line. However, its basic concept has not changed. A runner who crosses the finish line first wins. In addition to being a popular spectator sport, it is also a multi-billion dollar global industry with many different facets.
In order to better understand the game, there are some basic building blocks that every race bettor should know. This article introduces those and provides a basic primer on how to read the running lines of a Daily Racing Form.
Explains the standard unit of measure for distance in horse races, the difference between sprints and routes and a quick reference conversion table for distances over 1 mile. This is a great way for novices to begin the journey to becoming a more proficient handicapper.
Describes how varying track conditions (fast, firm, muddy, etc) are presented in the running lines of a Daily Racing Form and includes some sample data from past races. It also covers the abbreviations and their corresponding meanings.
A common way to bet on a horse race is to make a win, place or show wager. This is a $2 base bet that pays out to the bettor if his selection finishes first, second or third. It is a good idea for newcomers to start with this bet and work their way up to more complicated bets like the Pick Three, Four or Five, which are larger multiple-leg wagers that offer the chance for higher payouts.
Spectators are encouraged to attend warmups, which are held prior to the race and allow observers to see how horses perform in training. In addition, it gives them a glimpse at the interaction between the jockey or driver and their mount. This can be an important factor in a horse’s performance and should not be overlooked by any serious handicapper. A good jockey or driver can make a winning horse even more competitive. They will often be seen smiling and expressing enthusiasm as they lead their mounts into the starting gate. This is the mark of a true professional.