The New Year is underway and by now we’re starting to think about our favorite winter ovals. Mother Nature has been dealing from the bottom of the deck with wicked weather all across the nation. But, that’s winter. – The Happy Horseplayer is ready and chomping at the bit for the stakes that will lead […]

There are folks who pick a name out of a hat, favorite color, or employ a complex computation where they ask everyone in their family who they like and toss them out. Either way, everyone has a little Derby madness pulsing through their veins. This Saturday you’ll hear every theory in the world and the […]

The sun shone down with clouds of white fluffy puffs on a background of deep azul. Wind blew swiftly through the car windows as my hand was cutting imaginary paths through the air. – There was a feeling of quiet in the car, as the radio played a George Jones song in the background. It […]

The racing world always keeps an eye on the symposium in Arizona. Some of the best minds in the wagering world converge and break down issues that are facing the sport we love. There are a myriad of issues, and not all catch my attention as some. But when it comes to wagering, I’m all-in […]

In a shade over a week we’ll be sipping an icy cold mint julep, and singing the emotional “My Old Kentucky Home” lyrics. – The crowds will be dressed to the nines, and players from around the globe will be chomping at the bit to wager into the swelled Derby pools. – This may be the […]

  The Breeders’ Cup is in the books, and we’re starting to think about the holidays. That’s all good, and time with the family are the best moments in life. In addition to getting in the holiday swing, you’ll see some racing fans sharpening up their skill set. – You’ll see punters focusing in on contest play and […]

As you walk in the gates, you’ll see throngs of fans dressed in the finery of the day. The sights and smells fill the air as fans walk every which way possible. “Let’s get a drink; get me a program, where do we go, and the words you’ll hear more than any. Who do you […]

Remember when the sport could stand up to anything? The races would fill to the brim, and the “also eligible list” was off the page. We used to have so many horses and the purse coffers brimming, we could offer a double-header cards. According to Archie Bunker, “those were the days.” Things have changed a bit, and the future we […]

Every year, Robert starts getting the jitters. He looks over everything from direct mail pieces, and scans for the most up-to-date angles. You know, something new from last year that may have cost him the big payday. With email, snail mail, and betting site products. He’ll give me a call and tell me how he […]

As we fight back the tears when “My Old Kentucky Home” plays, you know the sport is more than just about winning money. There are stories to be told, and the magic is thick in the air. Any person who makes a dollar wager will make a bet on the Kentucky Derby. It’s game #7 […]