To Bet to Win

I know one professional handicapper who will not wager on a horse to win if the odds aren't 3-1 or better. I know several horseplayers who will bet odds-on favorites and be happy with the slim returns.

And there are handicappers who advise skipping such races altogether. I prefer the middle ground. Since I don't bet every race, I see nothing wrong with wagering on 5-2 or 2-1 shots, especially if they open higher and take some money. I do, however, use them in exactas because that's the best way to make more than a buck or two. Ah, but if the horse is going off at odds-on and I really believe the favorite will win I key the selection in a trifecta. I often find some bettors play the exotics but ignore the win bet. Then they whine when the horse wins, but they miss the exacta or trifecta.

Surprisingly, some bettors use a long shot in the exotics and don't bet the horse to win or place. Gee, that's when you realize the best return on your investment.

It's nice to wager against overbet favorites and collect. But you must decide which horses are vulnerable. Sometimes class is the key. Other times it might be the speed figures.

Whatever the reason, it's going to be more lucrative if your selection isn't the odds-on but the 5-2 second or third choice.

You make the call - let's hope it's a winning one.

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