Horse Racing Wagering: Pro Tips

by Dawn Lupul

Making Betting Horses Easier: Tips for Newcomers and Seasoned Bettors Alike

For those new to betting on horse racing, the learning curve can feel overwhelming. Between deciphering the program, understanding odds, and picking the right horse, it’s no wonder many find themselves a bit confused. But the truth is, betting on horses doesn’t have to be as difficult as it seems. In fact, with just a couple of quick tips, even beginners can enjoy the action without feeling lost in the weeds.

As veteran horse racing analyst and author of Betting on Horse Racing for Dummies Andy Beyer points out, "One of the reasons many people give up on horse racing betting is the overwhelming complexity of the program. But with a little focus, you can actually simplify things."

Tip 1: Focus on the Top Jockeys and Trainers

One helpful shortcut involves the program. While it may seem complicated at first, a quick glance at the "Stats" section can provide key insights. Specifically, focus on the top five jockeys and trainers for the meet. By narrowing your options to the most successful players at the track, you’re cutting through the noise and investing your attention in proven talent.

“Betting on horses trained by the top trainers or ridden by the leading jockeys increases your chances of cashing tickets, especially if you're new,” says Jim Goodman, a longtime horse racing analyst. “You don’t need to know everything about the horse to make a sound bet; you just need to trust the people guiding them.”

While following this strategy won't necessarily lead to massive payouts, it can help you hit a couple of solid bets throughout the day. In fact, even experienced bettors who are less familiar with a particular track can use this method to streamline their approach.

Tip 2: Follow the Money—Wager on the Second or Third Choices

For a simpler way into the action, consider betting on the second or third favourite based on the odds. Parimutuel wagering, which is the system used in horse racing, aggregates the bets placed by all participants and adjusts the odds accordingly. In essence, you're letting the crowd do the work for you.

"Newcomers sometimes overcomplicate things by trying to be too analytical," says Tony Calvin, a respected horse racing bettor and analyst. "If you focus on horses that are getting decent attention from the betting public but aren't necessarily the favorites, you’re often in a good position to make a profit without doing deep research. It’s a good strategy for anyone who wants to play along but doesn't have the time or resources to break down every race."

By following the crowd’s collective wisdom and betting on the second or third choice, you’re betting smart without needing to be an expert.

Conclusion: Simplicity Wins

Betting horse races doesn’t need to be overwhelming, even for those just starting out. By using these two simple tips—focusing on top jockeys/trainers and letting the odds help guide your wagers—you can minimize the complexity while still enjoying the excitement of the races. It’s not about becoming an expert overnight; it’s about finding smart shortcuts to make betting more accessible and fun for everyone.