Quote:
Originally Posted by Dahoss
I agree with some of your points, but why can't they have both? The puff pieces have their place, because people want to see them. But, if they get someone like Beyer on to discuss the race or races it can't hurt. Teaching people how to bet, or why certain people like certain horses can only help.
More knowledgable people are more likely to bet more. The better informed you are, the more likely you'll do well. If people just view gambling as a losing prospect, we'll never get the kind of fans the sport needs. But with the right people, keeping it simple and showing people that you can win betting, I think it could be effective.
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I personally think that's one thing that hurts the sport. Think about how long you handicap, reading the form, charts, watch replays and with all that it's still a very hard game to beat. It's one of the reasons people pefer other forms of gambling. Instant gratification, with no need to do any sort of research. It's unfortunate for the game because I really think it hurts possible future players. But on the flip side, that's what makes the game so great for people who love it. Trying to put that puzzle together and the feeling you get when you do.
Also when it comes to cappin, I personally think the Derby is the worst/hardest race of the year to cap, just because most of the horses have the same running lines. For it to work, you would really need like a handicapping for dummies pre show. But we all know that would never happen. Sure it helps to have guys like Beyer talking about the race, but if 80% of the country have no idea who he is, then you would almost be better off served having a recognizable person giving his or her analysis. You would probably have a better chance of the audience not changing the channel.