Betting on Horse Racing For Dummies

Cash in big on multiple races and horses Make well–informed bets and gain the winning edge Hoping to win at horse racing? Whether you′re betting at the track or online, this easy–to–follow guide helps you improve your odds, explaining everything from the different types of racing and planning wagers to handicapping and managing your funds. You′ll understand the ins and outs of the racetrack — and even see how to pick the next Kentucky Derby winner! Discover how to Make smart wagers that pay off Size up jockeys, trainers, and their horses Read the Daily Racing Form and race track programs Avoid common betting mistakes Follow racing on radio, TV, and online

Introduction. Part I: And They’re Off! Horse Racing and the Betting Scene. Chapter 1: Playing the Ponies for Pleasure and Profit. Chapter 2: All Horse Races Are Not Created Equal. Chapter 3: Getting a Handle on Parimutuel Wagering. Chapter 4: The Skinny on Betting. Chapter 5: Visiting the Racetrack. Part II: How the Players and Factors Impact the Race. Chapter 6: Studying Horses in the Paddock and during Post Parade. Chapter 7: Riders Up: The Importance of a Jockey. Chapter 8: Calling the Shots: Trainers and Owners. Chapter 9: Knowing the Track Surface and Conditions. Chapter 10: Zoning In on Equipment Changes. Part III: Gaining and Keeping a Competitive Edge. Chapter 11: Starting with the Right Tools: The Daily Racing Form and More. Chapter 12: Trying Your Hand at Handicapping. Chapter 13: Planning Your Wagers. Chapter 14: Making the Most of Your Bankroll. Part IV: Risky Business: Tackling More Advanced Bets. Chapter 15: Betting Exotic Wagers. Chapter 16: Getting Into Sophisticated Handicapping. Chapter 17: Taking On Handicapping Tournaments. Chapter 18: The Race for the Triple Crown: Picking a Kentucky Derby Winner and More. Part V: Playing Different Ponies and Different Venues. Chapter 19: Harness Racing: It’ll Drive You Wild. Chapter 20: American Quarter Horse Racing: Don’t Blink or You’ll Miss It. Chapter 21: Visiting Your Local OTB: Off–Track Betting. Chapter 22: Betting from Home. Chapter 23: Viva Las Vegas. Part VI: The Part of Tens. Chapter 24: Ten Best Bets and Betting Angles. Chapter 25: Ten Best Racetracks to Visit. Chapter 26: Ten Common Betting Mistakes. Appendix: A Glossary of Horse Racing Lingo. Index.

Richard Eng , a former researcher/writer for ABC Sports, has been involved in thoroughbred horse racing for more than 20 years. He currently hosts a radio show on horse racing.