I was reading my nightly racing favorites, and took a peak at the Breeders’ Cup site. I was expecting the “ho-hum” usual coverage with the “more to come” soon message. But, I may have underestimated what they have are doing. I think they are on the right track. It sure hit this player between the eyes, and I am sure I am not alone.

The Breeders’ Cup is 29-yrs-old, and looking good. As a fan we hope this to be the case, but the fan base that continues to elude the marketing grasp may soon be coming into view. Here are a few things that I read and felt would impact the game.

• The front page grabbed me with a “free million dollar on-line contest.” Now I know you have better odds having a straight pick-six, but it was a smart idea. When you allow the people to get close and feel a part of the day, I don’t know if you can put a price on that.
• It has a direct link for all of the BC news. Now, once upon a time in a land far, far away, you had to work hard to get info to absorb. With the on-line machine growing and allowing you to build a database of “real and proven” racing fans, the Breeders’ Cup and handful of tracks get it.
• The entire set-up with past history, social media, ticketing, merchandise, and of course the ominous count down clock that I watch like Christmas. The entire site gets an “A” from this gambler, and feel like it was not lost time looking. But enough of my warbling…. The best part was yet to come!
• I wanted to know how much, when and what was going on for wagering. I found everything and more, and for this capper, it was good news to my ears. Here is an excerpt of a press release:

Breeders’ Cup has announced that there will be $10,000,000 in guaranteed gross pools over the two days. Friday’s guarantees include: $500,000 Pick 5 on races 1-5; a $1,000,000 Pick 6 on races 5-10; and a $1.5 million late Pick 4 on races 7-10. On Saturday, the guarantees include: a $500,000 Pick 5 guarantee on races 1-5; a $1 million early Pick 4 on races 4-7; a $2.5 million Ultra Pick 6 on races 7-12; and a $3 million late Pick 4 on races 9-12.

Now, I don’t know about you, but my money is burning a hole in my pocket. I’m all for waiting my turn, but that guy with the rolled up program in me jumps up and gets stoked. If you are getting in the mood, you are definitely in the right place. Winning Ponies will be your one-stop-shop for the big weekend. Don’t go into Breeders Cup unprepared. The E-Z Win Forms have been doing well all year long, and are gearing up for the biggest stage just like you. Be sure to check-in for stories, blogs, selections, and free contests.