Horse Race - How to Pick a Winner

If you're a horse racing enthusiast, you know there's nothing quite like the thrill of picking a winner. But let's be real, picking winners takes more than just luck, especially if you want to make some serious cash.
At The Betting Brief, we've spent years analysing these factors and developing winning strategies. While nothing is fool proof, we've discovered some important tips that could help you pick a winner

 

Racing Surface

Horse performance can vary significantly on different race track surfaces which is why it is important to both know the surface of the race but also your horse's performance on this type of surface in the past. In South African racing, there are three surfaces to consider: turf, Polytrack, and sand.

 

Course and Distance

The course and distance is one of the most important factors in horse racing. Some horses are bred and suited better for longer distances while others are sprinters, suited for short distances. 

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Draw / Barrier

The draw or barrier is the position from which the horse starts the race in the gates. A lower draw, which is closer to the rail, is generally better because it means the horse has less ground to cover to get to the rail.

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Weight

The weight a horse carries is crucial. Look at its previous races to see how much weight it carried and whether it's carrying more or less this time. A horse that drops back in weight could be a good sign.

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Class of the Race

A horse that can win against weak competition may not perform as well against better horses. On the other hand, a horse that's dropping in class may be a good bet. Finding the right mix of weight and class can lead to big profits.

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Jockey and Trainer

A good jockey can make all the difference in a close race. Look for a horse that's ridden by a jockey who has had success on it in the past. Similarly, trainers who win tend to keep winning. Look for stables that are in good form and have multiple horses entered in a single race. They're likely looking to win big.

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Market Movers

Keeping a close eye on the markets is key! If you see early signs of movement move quickly and watch those odds shorten! But be careful not to get too excited and jump on a horse that's shortened too much as you could end up on the wrong end. Stick to your strategy and trust your instincts.

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So, next time you head to the race track, remember these tips and increase your chances of picking a winner. And if you're looking for more expert advice, visit The Betting Brief for all the latest horse racing news and insights.