1 of 14

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

is already psyched out, like a rookie going up against Shaq. Flattened ears, pointing forward, are the sign of a horse with its game face on.

Track denizens say to avoid betting on a horse that is sweating, a sure sign of nervousness. Thoroughbreds are especially noted for their skittishness, so one that seems calm amidst the turmoil just might be the ticket.

One school - or should we say barnyard - of thought says that a horse that, ah, makes a deposit on the manure pile right before a race has a weight advantage. Whether losing even a few pounds on a half-ton animal will make a difference remains to be seen, but it's the stuff of betting-window impulse.

If you're one of those folks who tracks your gas mileage with every fill up, then the Beyer Speed Figure maybe your ticket to fun at the track.

Found in the Daily Racing Form, the bible of horse racing, the Beyer number uses a formula to measure how fast a horse ran in the past three races. The higher the number, the better.

For example Bellamy Road was the favorite in the Kentucky Derby a few years ago, with a Beyer Figure of 120 in the last race prior to the Run for the Roses. However, Giacomo was the winner, with a number of 95. Although the scientific approach can't pick a winner every time, it does give you a good place to start.

Next time you're at the track, figure out your own system for handicapping the horses. At least it takes the sting out of losing if you have fun doing it.

Learn more about this author, Gary Wollenhaupt.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about How to bet at the horse track?
We want to hear your view. Write now!