Betting on horse races can seem intimidating to newcomers. With so many horses, jockeys, statistics, and wager types to consider, determining which horses to back can appear to be a daunting task. However, by arming yourself with some fundamental handicapping knowledge, you can learn how to bet on horses successfully.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover pro tips and Scommesse Sisal strategies to help you pick winning horses and cash more tickets at the track or online racebooks.
Analyze the Odds
The odds on the tote board provide valuable insights into how likely a horse is expected to win. Short odds suggest confidence that a horse will win, while long odds indicate an underdog. As a general rule of thumb:
- Odds lower than 2/1 signify a top contender
- Odds between 3/1 and 6/1 are reasonable plays
- Odds 10/1 or higher indicate a longshot
When you first start betting horses, stick to horses 3/1 or lower until you get more comfortable handicapping races. Keep tabs on how horses perform at certain odds levels at that track, which will help you determine if you’re getting fair value on the moneyline.
Evaluate Speed Figures
Speed figures measure how fast a horse ran compared to the rest of the field. They provide an objective snapshot of each runner’s ability and form.
Brisnet, Equibase, and Ragozin numbers are three popular speed figure brands to help compare horses. Higher numbers signify better efforts and ability.
Look for horses with speed figures equal or just below that of the favorite’s last race. Back horses with steadily increasing numbers rather than erratic up and down figures.
Check Class Levels
The class level indicates the caliber of competition the horse has faced and how it stacks up. Maiden and allowance races are for less experienced horses, while stakes races pit the best against each other.
Stick to horses moving up in class or dropping rather than taking major jumps in competition. Also beware of large class drops, which signal a struggling favorite.
Review Past Performances
Past performances detail a horse’s recent form with information like speed figures, finishes, beaten lengths, class levels, jockeys, and workouts. Identify patterns to capitalize on and red flags to avoid.
Hot jockeys and trainers capture around 27% and 19% more casino reviews wins respectively. Bet horses showing sharp works leading up to the race. Toss out horses with two subpar efforts in a row or significant layoffs.
Check for Trouble Trips
Closely review a horse’s recent running lines for any trouble comments. Trouble trips include “broke slowly,” “bumped,” “steadied,” or “blocked.”
Give horses who had troubled last outings but still finished strongly extra consideration. The added trouble may have cost them wins.
Know Each Horse’s Running Style
Horses have different running styles, whether they want to be on the early lead or come from behind. The expected race shape and pace scenario impacts which styles have an advantage.
If you expect a fast pace upfront, look for closers. For a slow pace, favor horses with early speed or tactical speed to stay near the front.
Pick Based on Distance Suitability
Some horses relish sprinting short distances while others thrive in routes. Analyze past performances to see if horses have won or hit the board at the race distance and surface type today.
Sprinters are best in races under a mile. Stamina horses excel in routes over a mile. Watch for horses stretching out or cutting back in distance too.
Check Track Biases
The racetrack surface can favor certain running styles on any given day. If speed horses dominate the day’s earlier races upfront, you’ll want to back front runners rather than deep closers.
Pay attention if most winners are on the rail or if outside paths have the advantage. Having an eye for biases provides an extra edge.
Conclusion
By adopting a systematic handicapping approach and implementing these expert tips, you’ll make far more informed bets. Follow the smart money, identify contenders with the right form and figures, determine expected pace shapes, and find overlays with odds better than their actual chances of winning.
With analysis and intuition, you’ll confidently bet on horses and watch your tickets cash. Good luck and happy handicapping!
Leave a Reply