What do you do with a bad ass bar, a race book, and a new race course ? – You try to build a fan base that comes for the races and stays for the fun. – The world of a racino is a creature unto themselves. They are part race track, and […]
There is more than just one flavor of ice cream, and if everyone liked the same color, it would be a pretty drab world. – Believe it or not, there are as many types of gamblers as Baskin Robbins has ice cream. – Yep, you heard it right here, and it is true as the […]
John Engelhardt asked me if I would fill in this weekend for his weekly handicapping seminar at Belterra Park. It is a fun half-an- hour or so, and I don’t get to take part much as there’s not much time to call the first race. But that aside, he is busier than a puppy with two bones […]
The giant building that could be seen for miles away is starting to crumble away quietly. Sports has changed, and Thoroughbred racing is no exception. – Fan experience in a racing environment was once upon a time based upon standing in lines. Remember when you would leave before the last race to beat the traffic ? […]
I speak to folks around the track everyday. I’m not running for mayor, it’s just a little something I’ve always enjoyed. – The players are the most important part of racing. If you don’t believe me, just shut the doors for one year, and see if you’ll be up and running the next. One of my big pet […]
Many moons ago I had one of the best jobs at the track. Serving the needs of the biggest players. Not just the rank and file $2 – $10 players, but the ones who’ll bet $15,000 – $25,000 daily. In Las Vegas they’re called whales, but anywhere else they’re called customers. If I could’ve duplicated one or two […]
Cheap racing has been around since Pike’s Peak was a pimple. Real players enjoy the opportunity to lock horns with condition claimers, cheap maidens, and longtime runners at small ovals. Why? The payoffs can get pretty sweet, and if you’re savvy enough to figure out the secret sauce. There’s a bumper payday waiting for you. With […]
I sure hope this question doesn’t appear on Jeopardy, as my answer would be easy. “There is never enough.” – Many moons ago, I watched double-headers. There would be an afternoon card followed by an hour or so break, and ten more incredible races. – Life couldn’t get any better for this gambler, and I […]
Saturday night was date night. We use to hang around watching movies having a few glasses of wine. Life never stay the same, and change is inevitable. In the famous words of Tyler Durden from the movie Fight Club, “It’s only after we’ve lost everything, that we’re free to do anything.” The casino-craze is full bloom in my neck of […]
By now you’re in driving range to a casino. On average, players travel 150 miles to get their gamble on. Some have a quick jaunt, and for others it takes a bit more planning to lose the kids education. As you start seeing the road side signage, you’ll feel your heart start racing and the conversation in […]