While plain old luck is the biggest factor when it comes to making or losing money... Handicapping makes the race more interesting as they give you a sense of control. So here's to some interesting tips: 1. Get acquainted with reading the race day program : At first, you might find the numbers and the lingo a bit intimidating, but with time you can cram the information to make smarter bets. 2. Look at what class levels your favoured horse has been racing at : Horses upgrade or degrade in the class levels throughout the year, and oftentimes, this change can determine the result. 3. Check how the favoured horse has performed : Some horses like dirt tracks, while other prefer artificial. Verify what your horse prefers, because horses perform differently on each surface. 4. The chemistry between the horse and the jockey : Verify jockey's performance history in the program. 5. Consider the odds : If you're looking to make some easy money without taking much risk, you can bet on the favourite as it pays off 67% of the time. 6. Watch the horse in the paddock : This gives you a chance to know how the horse behaves and looks before a race. 7. Last minute advice : If you think you might get carried away: SET A BUDGET AND BRING A LIMITED AMOUNT OF CASH.