Picking tracks

Originally Posted by Mugwump

Quick question from a newbie: I've read that it may be best to concentrate your handicapping efforts on one or two tracks. There is no local track here, so I have to pick one out-of-state. How do you determine which tracks you want to focus on? What kind of criteria do you use to choose one track over another?

I think that what you've read is excellent, and probably first-hand from experience, advice. And I would take that advice. NY, Kentucky, or SoCal--all large circuits would be my first choice. And no, I don't think low-level claiming events are good for newbs. The lure of longshots is far too great, and you end up in the red from the git-go. It often takes a longtime, seasoned, astute handicapper with decades of experience to make money in those ranks.

The other thing I would be SURE to do in choosing my track--or two. Study charts-results of that track EVERYDAY. Print them out. Learn everything you can about its players, the jocks, the trainers, horses, etc. Watching race replays is good. Studying charts, when a newbie, can be more helpful though. Learn results on paper, then begin the business of learning how to watch races with the idea of learning what to watch for.