BC Racebook Newsletter - January 23, 2025
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2025 Pegasus World Cup (G1) - DRF Late Pick 5
Tools of the Trade
by Dawn Lupul
There is no shortage of handicapping information to sift through as we make our betting decisions. It can be overwhelming, and we need to ask ourselves – what is important and what is just noise?
While everyone has a different style of playing the horses, some tools can be of value to most of us. Having an accurate set of past performances in addition to timely information, such as changes on the card and the weather conditions, are things we should never do without.
But what else can we choose to use to make the handicapping process a little easier? I have a few suggestions.
Some racetracks have excellent on-air talent. These are usually people who are bettors themselves and who have been in the game a long time. They aren’t afraid to pick against the obvious horses and will have solid reasons for doing so. Someone who just reiterates what is already in the program is of little help. Even after listening to their opinions, you need to trust yourself when it is time to bet.
There are many subscriptions you can get, and some of them can be of value. EquinEdge and Brisnet have some great products, and Formulator from Daily Racing Form is indispensable if you play often enough to justify the cost. If you want to give yourself the best chance to make money in the game, it can be worth the investment in some of these options to give yourself an edge.
Having better information improves the chances of turning a profit on a consistent basis.
I start my handicapping with the DRF and use Formulator when I am playing seriously. I take a quick look at current statistics to see which riders and trainers are on a hot streak and, more importantly, which ones aren’t.
I will try to catch the pre-game shows at NYRA tracks, Gulfstream, and Churchill if I am playing them. Otherwise, I will make sure to at least get the local weather forecast before I start handicapping and check it again as close to the first race as possible. I don’t want to be unprepared for whatever is coming.
I also like to focus on certain handicapping angles that have worked well for me in the past. This is a great way to play multiple tracks, as I am looking for just a few key angles.
I will discuss a couple of the ones I like in the next newsletter. Happy handicapping!
