learning the ropes

[MaTH716]

Originally Posted by deltagulf

Question here is it better to read the books about handicapping or attend some expos to learn the sport better. just curious on what ya'll think.

There is an expo coming up in Vegas the first week of March. If you could afford it and have the time to get away, it would probably be benificial for you. All the big names in the industry are supposed to be there. But if you are just starting to learn about the sport, that may be an overly aggressive move. Try reading one of the many books out there. One of the other posters would probably better off refering the best book to read. Also start watching all the races that you can. That way you learn some of the horses the jocks the trainers etc..... And most important, if you have any questions post them on this site. Personally I have not been at this site long, but everyone here is great. They are very insightful on any topic related in the industry. And some out of the industry too! There is ton of information on this site, and some of it is useful too. LOL. Good Luck!

[Samarta]

It is best to read and pay attention here....I know that may sound a little odd, but once you read enough, you will start to realize that everyone has his or her own area of expertise....put it all together and you will do okay....just don't take it to seriously and you'll have a blast.....and what ever you do, don't ever bet against English Channel or Round Pond.....

[blackthroatedwind]

Read " Picking Winners " by Andy Beyer and " Betting Thoroughbreds " by Steve Davidowitz.

And I agree with the other poster who said you should watch as many races as possible. And watch them as objectively as you can. Nothing teaches you better than learning how to accurately watch races.

[ELA]

"You can't learn to ride a bicycle by reading a book"

My statement is not in disagreement with any of the posters above, however, after reading all of the books mentioned, and attending all of the seminars -- you then have to watch about a bazillion races or so, LOL.

blackthroatedwind is about a bazillion percent correct.

Eric

[Cajungator26]

Handicapping 101 by Brad Free is also an excellent read IMO.

[bugsoup]

ok thanks that is what i thought that reading is better then going to sems. and hearing about to much at one time that all won't make since to me.
do have a question i hear people talking about changeing leads what is that and what purpose does it do?

thanks

[Thoroughbred Fan]

The first thing you need to know is that you will lose money for a long while. Not to say you won't have the odd day here and there, but the ability to handicap and make the correct bets takes time. If you have the time to invest, discipline to not bet more than you can lose, and the heart to not get discouraged, you might just make it.

[dellinger63]

Originally Posted by deltagulf

ok thanks that is what i thought that reading is better then going to sems. and hearing about to much at one time that all won't make since to me.
do have a question i hear people talking about changeing leads what is that and what purpose does it do?

thanks

using your avatar as an example your horse is on his right lead that is his right leg is coming out and hitting the ground first. Changing leads can be compared to a human hopping on one leg. Eventually you would get tired and would benefit by hopping on the other. This is the same thing with horses, once they hit the homestretch it benefits them by switching leads. There have been some that never switch leads but usually they are sprinters who only have to make one turn.