Does horse racing define you?

[Gander]

Ever think about what your life would be like without horse racing?

Does it make you part or all of who you are?

For some its a weekend hobby, for others its a career in some way or another, for some its a vice that interferes with relationships and personal goals.

You tell me. Who are you?

[Gander]

Do you make excuses to justify the gambling and the being at the track all day? Could you give it up if you had to?

[GPK]

Ever think about what your life would be like without horse racing?

Does it make you part or all of who you are?

For some its a weekend hobby, for others its a career in some way or another, for some its a vice that interferes with relationships and personal goals.

You tell me. Who are you?

It consumes my every thought.:D

[Downthestretch55]

Do you make excuses to justify the gambling and the being at the track all day? Could you give it up if you had to?
Tim,
As you know, I don't have to be at the track to gamble.
Heck, when it stands and nurses I've already made a substantial investment.
I love so much about it, in addition to the track.
The smell of fresh hay, and even the smell of the stalls.

Could I give it up?
Geesh, that would be very tough.
It's a very big part of my life.
It demands the best of me.
Gotta love the challenge...the adrenaline.

DTS

[GPK]

Well, I just scheduled my surgery for the 19th of July. As of July 1 I am unemployed. I have already thought about how many of those 18 days will be spent at the Colonial Downs track/OTB.

Any over/under on the # of days??????:D

[oracle80]

Well, I just scheduled my surgery for the 19th of July. As of July 1 I am unemployed. I have already thought about how many of those 18 days will be spent at the Colonial Downs track/OTB.

Any over/under on the # of days??????:D
Hmm, Im gonna say 14.

[GPK]

Hmm, Im gonna say 14.

thats about right....because I am gonna be gone for 4 days on a mini vacation with the girl:o

[Downthestretch55]

Hmm, Im gonna say 14.
16 is about close

[GPK]

*note to self....no employment = no income*:eek: :eek:

[2MinsToPost]

What a great set of questions. For me now this is what Horse Racing does for me -

Takes me to another place. I swear to each and every person who might read this, there is nothing now on this earth that brings me satisfaction (of course sex is the obvious) to the extent that spending an hour or two on a Friday night with the DRF, playing a Pick 3 or 4, and cashing provides.

This is what I so love about this industry from my perspective as a gambler - It provides one with the chance to use some intellect while gambling to score.

Ever think about what your life would be like without horse racing?

Does it make you part or all of who you are?

For some its a weekend hobby, for others its a career in some way or another, for some its a vice that interferes with relationships and personal goals.

You tell me. Who are you?

[TheSpyder]

I use to hitch hike to the Big T when I was 14. I had my high school senior scheule arranged so I'd make 1st post. I've been to the Derby 7 times and about every race track in the US and several in England. I now treck to Saratoga every year I can 8 out of the last 10 years.

36 years later I have seen that the track has molded me as a person in a very positive way. Each day at the track is a microcausium of life itself. You have winners and losers, you compete against the same people that are your best friends, the puzzles of each race (always different) are like each day you awake and each challenge you face in life.

Living in SC I got away from the ponies only to find them again bigger and better on the internet. Reading the form (I use brisnet) is the anaylical brain excersise that keeps me young and drives me beyond the finish line to each of lifes challenges.

We are a rare breed, especially those of us that love the game to be sitting here now doing this instead of hundreds of other things. In the end, my life is so much better for the challenge. If life is about the journey and not the end result it's a joy to know that it's 5 minutes to post time somewhere in the world right now and always.

Yea, I could quit horse racing and I could quit breathing. I don't see much pay off in either.

Spyder from SC

[miraja2]

uhhhh........no it does not define me. I think if a person has any ONE thing that defines them, they may need help.

[GPK]

I use to hitch hike to the Big T when I was 14. I had my high school senior scheule arranged so I'd make 1st post. I've been to the Derby 7 times and about every race track in the US and several in England. I now treck to Saratoga every year I can 8 out of the last 10 years.

36 years later I have seen that the track has molded me as a person in a very positive way. Each day at the track is a microcausium of life itself. You have winners and losers, you compete against the same people that are your best friends, the puzzles of each race (always different) are like each day you awake and each challenge you face in life.

Living in SC I got away from the ponies only to find them again bigger and better on the internet. Reading the form (I use brisnet) is the anaylical brain excersise that keeps me young and drives me beyond the finish line to each of lifes challenges.

We are a rare breed, especially those of us that love the game to be sitting here now doing this instead of hundreds of other things. In the end, my life is so much better for the challenge. If life is about the journey and not the end result it's a joy to know that it's 5 minutes to post time somewhere in the world right now and always.

Yea, I could quit horse racing and I could quit breathing. I don't see much pay off in either.

Spyder from SC

I think I just shed a tear....BRAVO.....(whistles).....bravo

[randallscott35]

I don't know that define is the word Tim was looking for. Frankly, if you have taken the time to find a horse racing message board and are a regular poster, than you aren't like most horse racing fans. Secondly, there are a group of people at the track who are there simply to gamble, i.e. they would be gambling on dogs or anything else if it was within driving distance. Then there are those who love horse racing and therefore gamble on it.

I can't envision my life without horse racing in it, but it doesn't define me. It takes up more of my time than any other hobby I have by far. But I feel like its quality time if I can make a buck at it....But the fact that Breeders Cup Day is my favorite day of the year times 10 makes it obvious that horse racing is more than a simple vice. Just a great game.

[Thunder Gulch]

It is my principal hobby, but that's what it is. I spend time almost everyday thinking about racing, reading books on the sport, or just trolling over here at Derby Trail. However, I have a family, own a business, and still enjoy other activities such as golf and going to football, basketball, baseball games, etc., so no, it doesn't define me.

[oracle80]

I don't know that define is the word Tim was looking for. Frankly, if you have taken the time to find a horse racing message board and are a regular poster, than you aren't like most horse racing fans. Secondly, there are a group of people at the track who are there simply to gamble, i.e. they would be gambling on dogs or anything else if it was within driving distance. Then there are those who love horse racing and therefore gamble on it.

I can't envision my life without horse racing in it, but it doesn't define me. It takes up more of my time than any other hobby I have by far. But I feel like its quality time if I can make a buck at it....But the fact that Breeders Cup Day is my favorite day of the year times 10 makes it obvious that horse racing is more than a simple vice. Just a great game.

I echo a lot of what Randall said but would add a few things. To "define" someone is a label thats just about impossible to assign without knowledge of another person completely. I'd have to say that anyoen who is defined by one thing in life has a very empty existence.
Life is completely bland when you only care about one thing. This is a horse racing board so thats what we basically speak about. I'm sure that I, like others, reach a point in the day when we have just had enough. Politics, movies, reading, sports, just so many other things hold my interest. Then of course we all have duties or responsibilities in life that we don't choose, they are just there and must be performed. Horse racing is something I have great passion for, but too much of anything will make you sour on it.
I think that many only view racing as a gambling outlet. These are the folks who are constantly bitter about the game and speak a lot of negativity about it. Some of us can watch races or handicap a card as a mental exercise and enjoy it without betting. Some of us really get pumped up watching a great horse like Ghostzapper run just to see him perform. The fact that he is 1-9 is meaningless. There are a lot of races to bet every day but so rarely do you get to see a great animal run.
I think thats what seperates the people here, some with passion for the sport,and some who only view it as gambling.

[31lengths]

*note to self....no employment = no income*:eek: :eek:

Isnt that what the girl's for? ;)
I am just kidding, of course.

[31lengths]

I don't gamble on anything but horses. In fact....I didn't gamble until I got better at 'capping. I still suck...just not as much.

[GPK]

Isnt that what the girl's for? ;)
I am just kidding, of course.


She has made it clear that there is no need for me to rush back into finding a job after surgery. But I can't just sit around....I will go ape****

[Pointg5]

It's my main hobby and interest, I bet mainly on weekends, but even when not betting, I read and try to learn all that I can. I don't golf or have any other expensive hobbies, so I don't feel the least bit guilty betting, I figure if I golfed I probably would spend more money with little return. There's nothing better than picking up a Form on Friday and looking at it all day at work and seeing all of the races and getting excited, putting together tickets. Also, my dad loves horse racing, so it gives him and I something to talk about, so that's pretty cool. Also, my best friend is into racing as much as I am, he's very busy, with 2 kids and a wife, it gives him a release as well. He's taught me a ton, but now that I have more time than him, I keep him up to date on alot of stuff.

[31lengths]

She has made it clear that there is no need for me to rush back into finding a job after surgery. But I can't just sit around....I will go ape****

Isn't that what this site is for ? :D

[Downthestretch55]

Well, you all are safe on this...unless you wake up in the middle of the night screaming at the top of your lungs, "Get up! Get on up!", and the lovely lady next to you pokes you and says, "OK, I'm tired, but go get a blue pill if ya wanna."

[Suffolk Shippers]

Well, you all are safe on this...unless you wake up in the middle of the night screaming at the top of your lungs, "Get up! Get on up!", and the lovely lady next to you pokes you and says, "OK, I'm tired, but go get a blue pill if ya wanna."

Thats a good little lady right there, if even if you wake up in the dead of night asking her to "GET ON UP" she gets up does business. She is a keeper :cool:

[SCUDSBROTHER]

Funny,if you watch your favorite baseball team play each night,are you addicted? No

If you are married,and spend every night with the same woman ,are you addicted? No


If you play horses with a pre-determined amount of money 5 days of the week,are you addicted? Oh certainly yes...LOL....GANDER,LET ME TELL YA WHAT'S UP. We all have habits of doing certain things more than other people do certain things.It's called likes,and dislikes.Let me tell ya what is important about betting horses.People waste time on any # of different hobbies,interests etc.So,I won't respond to that part of your statement,because it could be any activity..oil painting could be using up too much precious time that could be spent achieving these goals you often speak of.People certainly waste too much time(in some people's minds ) watching their favorite sports teams.I will respond to the important part of the subject of betting horses(the financial part.)If your going to play horses,it is up to you how much you can afford to lose.That decision on the amount needs to be made before you start betting,and you need to stick to it(painful, or not.)Don't let what happens (once racing begins,)determine how much you are willing to lose that day.You make the decision on the most you will lose.Nobody has total control of how much you can possibly win.You have total control on what you can possibly lose,and everybody who bets horses needs to have enough self respect for themselves to control how much they can afford to wager.

[Hickory Hill Hoff]

Well put Mike. It's been 20 years this month that I've been really interested in thoroughbred racing. I don't know why, but the challenge of taking a field of horses and predicting which of them will finish one/two/three got me hooked. I am a "small time" bettor, but just love to handicap the ponies. Could I live without it? Probably, but it's the one thing in my adult years that I'm most proud of. I never went to college, my job isn't the greatest. But, the love I have for this sport will never die! I am person who can remember little details from my past. In horse racing, I can remember those same details too.
Never made a lot of money in the sport, but wouldn't trade the past twenty years for nothing.

[2MinsToPost]

Scuds,

The last sentence of your response is one of the smartest things I have ever read on any message board BECAUSE it is 100% dead on -"You have total control on what you can possibly lose,and everybody who bets horses needs to have enough self respect for themselves to control how much they can afford to wager".


Funny,if you watch your favorite baseball team play each night,are you addicted? No

If you are married,and spend every night with the same woman ,are you addicted? No


If you play horses with a pre-determined amount of money 5 days of the week,are you addicted? Oh certainly yes...LOL....GANDER,LET ME TELL YA WHAT'S UP. We all have habits of doing certain things more than other people do certain things.It's called likes,and dislikes.Let me tell ya what is important about betting horses.People waste time on any # of different hobbies,interests etc.So,I won't respond to that part of your statement,because it could be any activity..oil painting could be using up too much precious time that could be spent achieving these goals you often speak of.People certainly waste too much time(in some people's minds ) watching their favorite sports teams.I will respond to the important part of the subject of betting horses(the financial part.)If your going to play horses,it is up to you how much you can afford to lose.That decision on the amount needs to be made before you start betting,and you need to stick to it(painful, or not.)Don't let what happens (once racing begins,)determine how much you are willing to lose that day.You make the decision on the most you will lose.Nobody has total control of how much you can possibly win.You have total control on what you can possibly lose,and everybody who bets horses needs to have enough self respect for themselves to control how much they can afford to wager.

[SCUDSBROTHER]

Scuds,

The last sentence of your response is one of the smartest things I have ever read on any message board BECAUSE it is 100% dead on -"You have total control on what you can possibly lose,and everybody who bets horses needs to have enough self respect for themselves to control how much they can afford to wager".


You know, I forgot to start a thread last week.I wanted to start a thread on Father's Day.Wanted to ask everybody what was the most important thing their Father has given(or taught them.) My Dad has always valued Moderation a great deal.

[westcoastinvader]

I learned to read by reading a racing form before I started school. And THAT'S a true story.

Related, when I got to fractions in math in grade school, I was at the head of the class with minimal effort. I do recall I had to explain to the teacher what a "furlong" was on one day.

I also won a school spelling bee in 6th grade by correctly spelling the word "inquiry." When the principal did the obligatory on stage interview, he asked how I knew the word. "I've seen it on the board at the track since I was a kid," was my reply....to the horror of my nag track playin' parents.

I've spent many many days in the years since, at live tracks.

And at OTB's and other gambling venues (I refuse to play via the internet.....it doesn't give me the sense of satisfaction and pleasure I know from the track, or the group action fun of OTB or sportsbook action).

Sometimes I win pretty good. Sometimes I've won very well. I've rarely crossed my limit in wagering for a day. If at a live track, I'm often content to just wander from the paddock, to the fence and to the winner's circle and just play a few bucks a race......if that.

If I've been in a city or town that publishes thoroughbred charts, I read 'em whether I have any vested interest, or not.

When I go to the track, or even the OTB, I forget anything else in the world that may not be going for the best in life.

Thoroughbred racing is glorious escapism for me, at times.

And I love the history of this sport, and try to collect and breathe it in whenever possible.

I'm not sure that horse racing has defined me, but I damned sure would be OK if I realize one day that it has.

[TheSpyder]

First I think some of you are in denial, but that's for you to decide.

Second according to the dictionary define means:

To give form or meaning to: “For him, a life is defined by action”

Now, that does not mean that your don't "care about" anything else. In fact, it does mean just the opposite. example: Barbaro

Maybe some of you have not logged approaching four decades of horse racing and maybe you don't care to, but, just like the ponies we play, I guess we are all different.

I just think I have found so many life lessons over the years and in each race that, yes, it does define me and I think I'm a better person for it.

Spyder from SC

[Gander]

Scuds-

My father gave me a carton of cigarettes and said..."Smoke up Johnny".

I love horse racing, staying in good shape, baseball, reading, drinking coffee and eating. Not so much into golf like I used to. It is too much of a process playing on weekends (basically only time I can play) and its getting real expensive. It doesnt give me the same level of pleasure as it use to when I was actually good at it.

[Gander]

First I think some of you are in denial, but that's for you to decide.


I know some of you are in denial! :cool:

[oracle80]

First I think some of you are in denial, but that's for you to decide.


I know some of you are in denial! :cool:

Tim lemme ask you something, would you say that the Red Sox or Yankees define you or I? I mean after all, when we scream and yell at the tv for the manager to get the damn pitcher out of there, or jump up and start making circular motions with our arms like a 3rd base coach after a guy hits a line drive with a guy on 2nd base, I'd say to the average guy we look like loonies. I've been with girls who don't understand or like sports who have seen me do this and they just can't believe that I do those things. Yet I would be hard pressed to say the Yankees define me. Its probably always been my greatest passion in life, I have been a Yankee fan to the 10th degree since I was just a small kid. Yet, its not a definition. I think that some have the ability to have great passion for their interests yet remain multifaceted. YOU know my political views and when I watch Hannity and his liberal jerkoff partner I sit and yell and at the tv screen louder than I yell during a race. Life, to me, gets awfully boring when you only have one interest or setting.

[hoovesupsideyourhead]

yes ,yes and yes,,love this sport and the" puzzle".if i would have taken a diffrent path in life i would have been a trainer,,but that bieng said..its the only thing thats just mine...kids wife all that is great ..but ive got my own thing that makes me happy..as i now reside in the bible belt its even more the life of a secret agent..surely the local pta would frown upon a horsplayer for a position..or coach..its funny when people ask me what i do for a living...i have to tell them im a consultant...lmfao...i live in a place where doct and lawyers are the norm ..so i find it funny.....

[oracle80]

Hooves I understand but do you think it "defines" you? I mean you don't talk much here about being a father, husband, and coach, etc. Yet its obvious that you are a dad, a husband, and a coach because you just told us. A lot of us don't speak about the other facets of what makes us up and our other activities. I know some have felt comfortable telling us about the personal things in their lives right down to the letter. I'm not one of them. When I wanna talk about personal things I use the phone or maybe messenger or email. I'm not getting on those who do such things like discuss every thing in their life here, but I'm not one of them. I'm a little more guarded about posting specific details of my life on a message board. I think its tacky, but thats just my opinion. I think to truly begin to understand or define someone you have to know a whole lot more about their life than what you read here in most cases. I think that most think of this place as a place to discuss who they think will win a stakes race on Saturday, not to discuss personal details of their family life and whats got them down or what they are battling.

[hoovesupsideyourhead]

i guess i know what your getting at...defines me..on this board in this context yes..i dont go for the telling the whole life story thing..thats for close friends ..on a need to know basis ..not in a public forum..imo

[oracle80]

i guess i know what your getting at...defines me..on this board in this context yes..i dont go for the telling the whole life story thing..thats for close friends ..on a need to know basis ..not in a public forum..imo
I know thats what I am saying. I think that in order to even begin to judge someone that you only know off the net that you have to have a lot more in the way of details than you get off a message board.
I think you and I are in the majority of people here that don't get into specifics about their personal lives.

[Scav]

You know, I forgot to start a thread last week.I wanted to start a thread on Father's Day.Wanted to ask everybody what was the most important thing their Father has given(or taught them.) My Dad has always valued Moderation a great deal.

Mine, the exact opposite, unload, unload, unload, doesn't matter if it is rats, pacers, or Los Al....UNLOAD

[hoovesupsideyourhead]

nice scavs..thats my boy..lol

[GPK]

yes ,yes and yes,,love this sport and the" puzzle".if i would have taken a diffrent path in life i would have been a trainer,,but that bieng said..its the only thing thats just mine...kids wife all that is great ..but ive got my own thing that makes me happy..as i now reside in the bible belt its even more the life of a secret agent..surely the local pta would frown upon a horsplayer for a position..or coach..its funny when people ask me what i do for a living...i have to tell them im a consultant...lmfao...i live in a place where doct and lawyers are the norm ..so i find it funny.....

F 'em Hooves. I have talked with ya alot by phone, and even though we have never met in person, I can tell your a class guy that loves his wife and kids. I envy you bro..

[hoovesupsideyourhead]

love dem ponys..like gpk..

[Gander]

I mean when a person thinks of you, do they immediately think of horse racing too? Some of my jerk off normal friends do. They, along with many others out there associate horse racing with gambling first and foremost. Cant really blame them as gambling does drive this sport unlike baseball or football, which is driven by fans simply buying tickets and jerseys.

It bothers me, yes. I had this guy come up to me who I hadnt seen since high school the day Giacomo won the Derby last year. It was at simulcast and the first thing he said to me was "Hey Tim, how are you man. You still betting horses", all with a cheesy drunken condescending tone. I was having a very bad day and I looked at him (his wife standing with him) and said, "Good Sean, how are you? You still selling drugs"? He got very mad and he and his 140 6-1 scrawny frame got in my face and the last thing I did was backdown. I was ready to deck the guy and I am not a violent person. He later apologized to me.

I think horse racing gets a very bad rap because of the gambling associated with it.

[hoovesupsideyourhead]

I mean when a person thinks of you, do they immediately think of horse racing too? Some of my jerk off normal friends do. They, along with many others out there associate horse racing with gambling first and foremost. Cant really blame them as gambling does drive this sport unlike baseball or football, which is driven by fans simply buying tickets and jerseys.

It bothers me, yes. I had this guy come up to me who I hadnt seen since high school the day Giacomo won the Derby last year. It was at simulcast and the first thing he said to me was "Hey Tim, how are you man. You still betting horses", all with a cheesy drunken condescending tone. I was having a very bad day and I looked at him (his wife standing with him) and said, "Good Sean, how are you? You still selling drugs"? He got very mad and he and his 140 6-1 scrawny frame got in my face and the last thing I did was backdown. I was ready to deck the guy and I am not a violent person. He later apologized to me.

I think horse racing gets a very bad rap because of the gambling associated with it.
i dont even know what you look like..but we are always stuck in the memories of the past..thats why he said that ..and why you said what you did..

[oracle80]

I mean when a person thinks of you, do they immediately think of horse racing too? Some of my jerk off normal friends do. They, along with many others out there associate horse racing with gambling first and foremost. Cant really blame them as gambling does drive this sport unlike baseball or football, which is driven by fans simply buying tickets and jerseys.

It bothers me, yes. I had this guy come up to me who I hadnt seen since high school the day Giacomo won the Derby last year. It was at simulcast and the first thing he said to me was "Hey Tim, how are you man. You still betting horses", all with a cheesy drunken condescending tone. I was having a very bad day and I looked at him (his wife standing with him) and said, "Good Sean, how are you? You still selling drugs"? He got very mad and he and his 140 6-1 scrawny frame got in my face and the last thing I did was backdown. I was ready to deck the guy and I am not a violent person. He later apologized to me.

I think horse racing gets a very bad rap because of the gambling associated with it.

Tim first of all I wish I was there when that guy said that, I would have been glad to have provoked him further then humiliate him on front of his wife.
Secondly, I truly think you have a problem understanding that everyone else does not think of the world like you do. The reason I say that is that you point to football and other sports and say that they are ticket driven and not associated with gambling? Are you on too much sugar today? See Tim you are like me, you and I love sports, truly LOVE them and can sit and watch wimbledon, the masters, the ncaa tourney, football and baseball without a penny on them(I never bet sports, have never had a bookie in my life, nor have I had an online account, sports are my greatest love and I don't need a penny on them to enjoy them or scream like a maniac). YOUr mistake is in thinking that everyone else is like you and I in that regard. GAMBLING DRIVES FOOTBALL!!! Without the gambling not as many peoiple watch it, the ratings are ****, and therefore no tv advertising money and not as much revenue for the teams. YOU really think that football isnt gambling drievn? My God Tim, a few years ago the league pushed back the starting times on the late games by 15 minutes. Wanna know why? Vegas and the bookies had customers who needed to know how the first games ended in order to see how they could bet the late games. You really think thats not why they didnt push back the games 15 minutes? WHy else would they do it? Its nonsense, the only difference is that the football gamblers sometimes hide behind teh cover that they are "just fans" and not gambling. They sit there white knuckled while the wifey is cooking dinner and pretend that they just care who wins the game, when in fact they bet it.
I

[Gander]

I said what I did because he was being an as-hole. He was drunk and trying to insult me in front of my friends. He was being very arrogant and he is lucky that I have a clear level head. This scumbag is a piece of trash who paid his way through life selling drugs. I have zero respect for anyone like this.

[whorstman]

I may be a seasonal person. I also play golf, softball etc. I love all types of sports. I would say sports in general define a big part of me. Come the fall, when the NFL kicks in, I will be bouncing back and forth w/ Derbytrail and CBSSPORTSLINE CREEKDOGG FANTASY FOOTBALL!!! I finnally broke through after years of disapointment and won my first title last year. I was actually runner up in the other CREEKDOGG league, we have 2. Damn near won them both in the same season, instant hall of fame they said. Oh well. Back to racing, I love it. I always have. I am on a new level with it now thanks to DT, I pay more attention and have learned tons from many many people on here. Most will not hesitate to answer any questions and I have a lot of fun reading and posting on here. Kinda feel like a know a few people on here, even though in reality I guess I don't. I can tell you this, I pulled Saturdays PPs yesterday and began handicapping 2 days in advance! I NEVER would have done that before. If there was a REAL good reason why I had to give it up, I would. It would have to be a damn good one though. I have to be at the track when betting though. My friends make fun of me because I get so juiced during a race I am shaking for at least 5 minutes afterwards. GD it's great excitment!!! I'll give you the emotiocon gammit of my racing emotions....

Before the race ;)
During the race :eek:
After the race (WIN) :D
After the race (loss) :mad:

[2Hot4TV]

I mean when a person thinks of you, do they immediately think of horse racing too? Some of my jerk off normal friends do. They, along with many others out there associate horse racing with gambling first and foremost. Cant really blame them as gambling does drive this sport unlike baseball or football, which is driven by fans simply buying tickets and jerseys.

It bothers me, yes. I had this guy come up to me who I hadnt seen since high school the day Giacomo won the Derby last year. It was at simulcast and the first thing he said to me was "Hey Tim, how are you man. You still betting horses", all with a cheesy drunken condescending tone. I was having a very bad day and I looked at him (his wife standing with him) and said, "Good Sean, how are you? You still selling drugs"? He got very mad and he and his 140 6-1 scrawny frame got in my face and the last thing I did was backdown. I was ready to deck the guy and I am not a violent person. He later apologized to me.

I think horse racing gets a very bad rap because of the gambling associated with it.
Gambling does get a bad rap and it should be nothing more than a footnote to help paint the picture of who you are. I hope that it's not the first thing that people focus on when they remember me and if it is, I want them to mention the WINNERS before the tough beats. Save the losers for one last Should of, would of, could of and may he rest in peace.

[GPK]

I may be a seasonal person. I also play golf, softball etc. I love all types of sports. I would say sports in general define a big part of me. Come the fall, when the NFL kicks in, I will be bouncing back and forth w/ Derbytrail and CBSSPORTSLINE CREEKDOGG FANTASY FOOTBALL!!! I finnally broke through after years of disapointment and won my first title last year. I was actually runner up in the other CREEKDOGG league, we have 2. Damn near won them both in the same season, instant hall of fame they said. Oh well. Back to racing, I love it. I always have. I am on a new level with it now thanks to DT, I pay more attention and have learned tons from many many people on here. Most will not hesitate to answer any questions and I have a lot of fun reading and posting on here. Kinda feel like a know a few people on here, even though in reality I guess I don't. I can tell you this, I pulled Saturdays PPs yesterday and began handicapping 2 days in advance! I NEVER would have done that before. If there was a REAL good reason why I had to give it up, I would. It would have to be a damn good one though. I have to be at the track when betting though. My friends make fun of me because I get so juiced during a race I am shaking for at least 5 minutes afterwards. GD it's great excitment!!! I'll give you the emotiocon gammit of my racing emotions....

Before the race ;)
During the race :eek:
After the race (WIN) :D
After the race (loss) :mad:


Thats funny stuff...I remember going to the OTB about 2 months ago. It was the first time I had been in 5-6 weeks. I was so geeked up and ready to go. Mind you, it was over an hour drive for me to get there, so waaaay too much time on my hands. I called Gander about 10 minutes into my drive and told him I had to put in a CD of Sarah MacGlaughlin just to settle my nerves. Had I listened to my normal music, my emotions would have been shot before even walking in the doors at the OTB...LOL

[Gander]

Some of my good friends always bring up the day I hit the Monarchos Derby for 8 grand and I took them all out for drinks & food. I like it when it comes up in a good & fun way, but not in a negative way implying I am a loser. Theres just no need to insult people and hurt feelings. Life is too short.

[hoovesupsideyourhead]

unless your dwl or frankle not many outsiders would say.. this guy is horseracing..

[hoovesupsideyourhead]

Thats funny stuff...I remember going to the OTB about 2 months ago. It was the first time I had been in 5-6 weeks. I was so geeked up and ready to go. Mind you, it was over an hour drive for me to get there, so waaaay too much time on my hands. I called Gander about 10 minutes into my drive and told him I had to put in a CD of Sarah MacGlaughlin just to settle my nerves. Had I listened to my normal music, my emotions would have been shot before even walking in the doors at the OTB...LOL
damn son that was your problem..alittle godsmack goes along way lol..there s no crying in h racing..lol

[GPK]

damn son that was your problem..alittle godsmack goes along way lol..there s no crying in h racing..lol

Godsmack gets me too pumped...I would have been bouncing off the walls in the OTB....:eek:

[Cajungator26]

It consumes me. I don't have a whole lot of money to gamble, but I enjoy the sport and I enjoy it mostly because of the horses themselves.

[Bold Brooklynite]

I don't bet much on the horses ... because I know that being a bettor is a full-time occupation ... if you don't have the time or desire to follow the races very closely day-after-day ... you shouldn't be betting ... because you'll never beat the 15%-25% take-out.

As the old song said ... I don't know why I love it ... but I do. I've been following thoroughbred racing closely for 49 years ... at least at the G1 level ... ever since Bold Ruler caught my fancy ... and the anticipation of seeing a great racehorse in action still grabs me.

Of course ... I haven't seen a really great horse since 1980 ... but I'm eternally the optimist.

[2MinsToPost]

Why does Horse Racing get a bad name? In my opinion this is why,

I remember my first trip to the track with my Mother. She was betting The Derby. We walked into Beulah and I was a "tad" nervous, I was probably 7 or 8 years old. Why? Anyone who has been to a track or simulcast facility knows why, the majority of customers are guys who don't bathe, no personal hygene whatsoever. Smoke everywhere, smells terrible. People screaming at the tv, cussing etc.. One trip thru the parking lot and what do you see? Beat up 1980's General Motors and Fords with trash spread all over the inside. So, if this is your first time going to the track what kinda taste will that leave in your mouth, not to mention smell on your clothing?

I can't believe Gambling gets the black eye it does. It's your money, do what you want with it. It's none of my business. Gambling only helps define those who allow it to. Its a part of me, not whole. I believe it's a part of everyone on here, not whole.

[paisjpq]

Why does Horse Racing get a bad name? In my opinion this is why,

I remember my first trip to the track with my Mother. She was betting The Derby. We walked into Beulah and I was a "tad" nervous, I was probably 7 or 8 years old. Why? Anyone who has been to a track or simulcast facility knows why, the majority of customers are guys who don't bathe, no personal hygene whatsoever. Smoke everywhere, smells terrible. People screaming at the tv, cussing etc.. One trip thru the parking lot and what do you see? Beat up 1980's General Motors and Fords with trash spread all over the inside. So, if this is your first time going to the track what kinda taste will that leave in your mouth, not to mention smell on your clothing?

I can't believe Gambling gets the black eye it does. It's your money, do what you want with it. It's none of my business. Gambling only helps define those who allow it to. Its a part of me, not whole. I believe it's a part of everyone on here, not whole.
walk through the parking lot at Keeneland sometime...

[2MinsToPost]

Obviously this is not a fair look overall, but just what I have seen at my home tracks, Beulah and Scioto. Its the same people 360 days a year. The only time you see the new faces is the obvious days, Derby, Breeders Cup etc.. When I am there and see a new face I am shocked. I am especially shocked if I see them again.

[paisjpq]

Obviously this is not a fair look overall, but just what I have seen at my home tracks, Beulah and Scioto. Its the same people 360 days a year. The only time you see the new faces is the obvious days, Derby, Breeders Cup etc.. When I am there and see a new face I am shocked. I am especially shocked if I see them again.
I guess I'm lucky in that my first trip to the track was Saratoga as a kid, more like a park then a track. but I've seen the guys you talk about too...

[pgardn]

Going back to the original question:

It is clearly a hobby for me.

But the animals are fantastic athletes and I think that is what many people miss by not going to the track, and or watching them work. I love the way the animals run. All this breeding stuff is interesting, but a huge side issue for me.

The gambling and the numbers allow the sport to take on a whole new life for me. It is also a study in people and habits. I love the numbers and the misuse of them. I love to watch people who have a thousand tickets in front of them after punching the machine to death. I love to listen to all the diff. folks talking about their stragtegies. The track itself is a very interesting place.

[2MinsToPost]

I am thankful in that I have found a place at my 2 home tracks where they don't put up with some of the nonesense, not too mention it is no smoking. Most definetly, the horse is the star of the show. It still every now and then gives me goosebumps when I am close to a horse in the paddock.

Going back to the original question:

It is clearly a hobby for me.

But the animals are fantastic athletes and I think that is what many people miss by not going to the track, and or watching them work. I love the way the animals run. All this breeding stuff is interesting, but a huge side issue for me.

The gambling and the numbers allow the sport to take on a whole new life for me. It is also a study in people and habits. I love the numbers and the misuse of them. I love to watch people who have a thousand tickets in front of them after punching the machine to death. I love to listen to all the diff. folks talking about their stragtegies. The track itself is a very interesting place.

[Seattleallstar]

Horse racing defintely does not define me, when I first started getting into the sport I thought it was a quick way to make a ton of cash. But as in the case with people who gamble that is defintely not the case. Instead it has become a way to connect and bond with my dad, gives us more things to talk about. In the past few months or so my interest has waned a bit, and I dont spend as much time as I should learning more about the game.

[DerbyCat]

I have been going to the track for over a year now and I completely love it, my local track is small and it seems eveyone knows the "regulars" and I'm happy to say that I've become one of them (I'm not there every day but most of the people who work there know me). My friends and family know I'm obsessed with the races and I think they all believe that it's just a phase I'm going through - it isn't, I know I'll be into this for life... I just love the ponies :)

[eurobounce]

Horse Racing does not define who I am. It is one of many coponents that defines who I am. There are so many aspects of racing that it isnt funny. Just like anything in life, you cant let one thing ruin what is important to you in your life. Jimmy Johnson (football coach) actually divorced his wife because his life was football and he thought it wasnt fair to his wife or to himself. If you choose to make racing your life, make sure you let things and people who are important to you understand that they are going to come 2nd.

To me there are 3 apsects to horse racing. 1) My small ownership. This allows me to experience the wonder of seeing your horse start their 1st race. Seeing them cross the finish line 1st and getting your photo taken. Being a small owner is something truly special to me and it is something that I enjoy. 2) Gambling and Handicapping. I view this as a form of entertainment. My wife uses scrapbooking as a way for her to leave her life of a wife, mom and worker. It is her hobby that is hers. She doesnt wany anyone in the family to be part of it. It is hers and she wants it that way. To me gambling and going to the track is the same. It is my hobby. My way of relaxing. It allows me to escape the pressures of being a father, hubby and business owner. To me it is like going to the movies, going for a drive or going to the opera. 3) The Fan Side. This is the most important to me. I am a fan of racing 1st before owner and gambler. I love watching the horses. I like how they look, how they run. My heart breaks when I see a horse injured and my heart skips a beat when I see a truly wonder performace. I just love watching horses compete. Now, I could give up the ownership and gambling. I would just replace those with something else that I enjoy. But I could never give up being a fan of the sport.

[SentToStud]

I think I spend 30 hours a week on horseraing. But to me, that's not all that much. Fortunately, I only sleep 4 hours a night, so I have a bit more time than most people to devote to my "interests." I really have only three interests... financial markets horse racing and whatever the hell my wife wants tme o do whenever the hell she wants me to do it. I work for myself as an employyee benefits consultant and also dabble in real estate, buying trashed out houses and townhouses, rehabbing them and reselling. My typical day:
4am: Wake up. Coffee brewed
4-6am: Markets, especially Far East
6-7am Gym
7-9am: Racing Form, Replays and get wife off to work, walk dog.
9-11am: Business Calls, visit clients, prospect, research real estate.
11-3 pm: Work on rehab project. As concession to my horse and financial markets interests, i always have internet service installed on at the home I'm working on.
3-6pm: Back home... markets, horses, benefits work.
6-10pm: Family time, walk dog
10-12: Tomorrows DRF and markets. Walk dog as needed.

I can take a day or a week off from racing and I never jones over it. If given a choice, I'd rather go see a good movie or play than go to the track. However, SentToStud does not do opera.

Family and Faith are first
Markets and horses are seond
I am third

[oracle80]

I think I spend 30 hours a week on horseraing. But to me, that's not all that much. Fortunately, I only sleep 4 hours a night, so I have a bit more time than most people to devote to my "interests." I really have only three interests... financial markets horse racing and whatever the hell my wife wants tme o do whenever the hell she wants me to do it. I work for myself as an employyee benefits consultant and also dabble in real estate, buying trashed out houses and townhouses, rehabbing them and reselling. My typical day:
4am: Wake up. Coffee brewed
4-6am: Markets, especially Far East
6-7am Gym
7-9am: Racing Form, Replays and get wife off to work, walk dog.
9-11am: Business Calls, visit clients, prospect, research real estate.
11-3 pm: Work on rehab project. As concession to my horse and financial markets interests, i always have internet service installed on at the home I'm working on.
3-6pm: Back home... markets, horses, benefits work.
6-10pm: Family time, walk dog
10-12: Tomorrows DRF and markets. Walk dog as needed.

I can take a day or a week off from racing and I never jones over it. If given a choice, I'd rather go see a good movie or play than go to the track. However, SentToStud does not do opera.

Family and Faith are first
Markets and horses are seond
I am third

Remarkably similiar values to mine. My day is similiar but where you have rehab you can add doing errands, yard work, etc, for some relatives and old folks. Ditto on the days off, not only can I handle them, I require them. I don't do opera either, but I love a good movie and dinner. Or in the summer a day at the lake followed by dinner, beer and a ballgame at night. Thats gonna beat any day at the track by a mile. As far as others who judge people in horses and what they think? The only guy I answer to is a Jewish carpenter. Everyone else can go and **** themselves if they wanna judge me.

[Seattleallstar]

Remarkably similiar values to mine. My day is similiar but where you have rehab you can add doing errands, yard work, etc, for some relatives and old folks. Ditto on the days off, not only can I handle them, I require them. I don't do opera either, but I love a good movie and dinner. Or in the summer a day at the lake followed by dinner, beer and a ballgame at night. Thats gonna beat any day at the track by a mile. As far as others who judge people in horses and what they think? The only guy I answer to is a Jewish carpenter. Everyone else can go and **** themselves if they wanna judge me.


you answer to Sandy Goldstein? The Jewish carpenter

[SentToStud]

Remarkably similiar values to mine. My day is similiar but where you have rehab you can add doing errands, yard work, etc, for some relatives and old folks. Ditto on the days off, not only can I handle them, I require them. I don't do opera either, but I love a good movie and dinner. Or in the summer a day at the lake followed by dinner, beer and a ballgame at night. Thats gonna beat any day at the track by a mile. As far as others who judge people in horses and what they think? The only guy I answer to is a Jewish carpenter. Everyone else can go and **** themselves if they wanna judge me.

Used to love baseball at night back in Chicago, either Wrigley or Sox Park, but down here, it's just too humid at night in the summer to enjoy yourself. Gasping for air for three hours is not my idea of fun and my wife would rather chew off her foot than go to a game here. However, with average attendance here as it is, parking is never a problem.! Now,having revealed my daily schedule, I shall deviate today and am headed out for live action and the 3pm CRC first post! good luck 2day!!

ay, que vida muy bueno.

[hoovesupsideyourhead]

Used to love baseball at night back in Chicago, either Wrigley or Sox Park, but down here, it's just too humid at night in the summer to enjoy yourself. Gasping for air for three hours is not my idea of fun and my wife would rather chew off her foot than go to a game here. However, with average attendance here as it is, parking is never a problem.! Now,having revealed my daily schedule, I shall deviate today and am headed out for live action and the 3pm CRC first post! good luck 2day!!

ay, que vida muy bueno.
good luck sent to..is w white still sending out good ones...

[Honu]

I think horse racing defines who I am , as it is all I have ever done besides the 2 years I lived in Hawaii. Most of my life revolves around race horses from getting up in the middle of the nite to go to work everyday , to planning when is the best time for me to take my vacation so I dont miss anything big happening. Not to say that my dedication to the "job" doesnt interfere with my personel life because sometimes it does but the people around me who know me best know that this is my passion and that I have a big sense of responsibilty when it comes my job.

[Sightseek]

This is such a great topic....

I guess if you were to ask people who know me best to pick a word they would associate most with me it would be "horseracing" or "fitness" so I guess that means something. :)

Horseracing not only brought wonderful people into my life but has made me challange myself in several ways. Once I became a racing fan there was this whole new world that I was introduced to and it was interesting...There are so many dynamics to the sport, from pedigrees, to handicapping to purely being captivated by the beauty of equine in front of you. Highs and Lows...I wanted to learn everything about everything. It's not an easy thing for a young woman to leave behind her job and try something new to discover what it is she wants in life, but if it wasn't for my love of racing, I would have not done this a few years ago. And although I did not stay living in Kentucky doing what I was doing, I learned that if I want something bad enough I can achieve it.

So maybe one thing can never define you, but it can enhance the person you are. :)

[SteelKrtan]

Define? no to me it's a damn drug:cool: A old trainer said to me it's like heroin once its in your blood thats it your doomed for life !!! Wow where to start live, sleep ,race & breed & even dream about the damn things !!!. Come from a non horse background never even bothered with horses until i met & married a jockey now she's teaching the youngsters & wants nothing to do with horses & im full on !!! ,I breed them but to me there is nothing better than watching a horse you have trained flashing past the winning post.
There are so many lows in this buisness that if you take to heart you will never make it but for all the downs when you pull out of the crap & get that rare (belivie me it is rare with the big trainers swallowing everything)
win there is nothing better. Oh well you do get the vidieo to watch over & over;)