Customer Reviews: Read 14 more reviews...
 So much to learn, So little time! September 16, 2008
Ainslie takes it to the micro with way too much information for a novice live me. I really enjoyed learning of how the sport as a whole "works" and WHY there's so much information printed in the Daily Racing Form.
 One of my favorites November 3, 2006
Ainslie breaks down several factors that should be looked at when analyzing a race - speed, pace, trainer, class, form, etc. His writing style is great, the info is great, and it is a great primer for anyone just getting into the sport or wanting to improve their skills. Some of the jockey/trainer info is a little outdated, but I refer to the book often. Highly recommend.
Still a classic January 6, 2006
What an eye opener it was when I stumbled on this fifteen years ago! Some of the material is dated, but the fundamentals are well covered and still relevant. Still a terriffic primer for someone wanting to learn the game.
Dated, but worth mining through... February 24, 2005
5 out of 5 found this review helpful
Let's start with the obvious. Ainslie wrote in a different time: before exotic wagering, which he considered a gimmick, became 70+% of the daily handle. His specific advice about WPS betting and money management, as a result, should be discarded. Likewise, his advice about which trainers and jocks to follow has aged poorly.
At the same time, there's information in here that's invaluable, such as the sections on understanding trainer intent, and on post parade and paddock behavior.
This book has a special place in the history of handicapping, and for that reason alone, is worth having, but in the modern player's arsenal, it should be an added coloring and not the central philosophy.
The Horseracing Information Bible December 27, 2004
5 out of 5 found this review helpful
I had read nearly a dozen books on horserace handicapping before I read Ainslie's book. This should have been the first book on horseracing that I read. Ainslie covers every aspect of handicapping and the racing game imaginable. He writes in a simple, concise, easy style -- easy on the eyes, easy to absorb.
It is well-organized. Each chapter covers a specific aspect of the game. Perhaps what I enjoyed the most (and have put to good use) is Ainslie's 60 item list on how to handicap a race --what to look for: angles to be aware of in class, form; speed; jockey/trainer angles .. and on and on and on. The beauty of this book is that the reaader is exposed to so many different topics and subject areas that he will able to find his nich, his own style in handicapping. If you are like me, after you read this book, you will have a list of several more books that you will simply have to have. Thanks to Ainslie.
Ainslie doesn't tout any particular handicapping style; he simply informs the reader of all the many different angles there are instantly adding to the reader's knowledge of the game and providing instant improvement to his handicapping. This is the racing book you would keep on your bedside table; this is the book that you will be referring back to time and time again -- there is that much in this book. Tell you one thing, I envy Ainslie's friends who are able to get tips and suggestions from the author.
If the reader is buying this book in paperback, perhaps he should buy two copies. Surely, he will wear this book out. I have.
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