After the holidays, and the ten extra pounds I added to my waist and not my wallet, I am ready to get back in the action. I love it. I stay away for a couple of days, and I feel like a new man.

It wouldn’t be me if I didn’t have a contest on the horizon. I have one on Friday calling my name. It is a “Tournament of Champions” contest, and exactly a year ago I got lucky and qualified. I am already focusing in on Friday. I will start my replay capping on Wednesday, and progress from there. Don’t look at it as a way to stay alive. I see it as way to be alive. Racing runs deep for me, and I don’t think I am alone…..Wish me luck!

This Thursday, will be our first Internet radio show of the year. We are planning on having Kiaran McLaughlin as our special guest. We spoke, and he was a very nice gent. The worst thing about having the biggies on board, is that they may have something to take them away at the last second. Either way, we are looking forward to having him on. I sure hope you tune in!

Start your bankroll. Put a little aside each week, and in a few months, you will have a wallet for the marquee races. Gulfstream will be opening in a matter of days, and that is a signal racing is coming back to life. The babies getting ready, and turf racing back in the house. What more could you ask for?

Keep a list, or start a stable of runners to watch. This will payoff in spades. You need to stay up on things, even if you have to do it after the fact. Don’t forget to look at the track biases, and try not to see things that did not happen as you handicap. This is tough, and it can be really bad for me. Sometimes you want to see a trip that needs a note, and you find yourself watching for something that is not there. Keep your eyes open, but be true in your observation.

Start watching Fair Grounds, Gulfstream, Aqueduct, and Santa Anita. The rest can be left alone for the most part, as you may not see anything coming your way for the Derby trail. The only exception is Oaklawn, and you can eliminate the statebred races. As you get closer, start focusing a little more with a few less circuits. Keep an eye on all after the fact, but you will have a better R.O.I by limiting the tracks you play.

Don’t be afraid to start a nice place parlay. Begin on a Wednesday, and make a play or two. Keep the entire amount rolling, and you may be surprised by Saturday.

Just a few refresher ideas to get you started. Always compare them to the tier levels, and if you want to play another off the wall circuit, I would put your faith in those who do the homework. It is impossible to watch every track and every race. But, you have a tool that will keep you competitive.

Good luck in 2010!