Revised 'Betting Thoroughbreds' better than ever; 'Pick 6' book hot

2 September 2009

By Howard Schwartz

Steve Davidowitz's classic Betting Thoroughbreds is back in action, this time with an addition to the title -- for the 21st Century. This marvelous book, which was first published in 1977, has undergone a multitude of changes, all for the better, as the betting game has evolved. The new edition, a 379-page hardbound ($24.95), is available now as the thoroughbred season kicks into high gear again, along with a new title, How to Win the Pick 6 by Steven Kolb (397 pages, paperbound, $33.95).

Betting Thoroughbreds for the 21st Century: Davidowitz, one of the most respected and charismatic handicappers of the past 30 years, offers 25 solid chapters covering virtually every pertinent topic including: track bias, synthetic track handicapping, the trainer, allowance races, Beyer Speed Figures, pace handicapping, workouts, pedigree handicapping, use of drugs, exotic wagering, watching replays, how to read the Daily Racing Form and speed and pace figures.

Horseplayers will praise this latest edition for its clarity and balanced approach to the subject. The reader is presented with many charts, tables, race examples and past performance summaries that make this book a must-have, must-read for any serious horseplayer.

Kolb's How to Win the Pick 6 concentrates on that lucrative Pick 6 bet in two-dozen chapters, covering vast territory exotic bettors have been requesting for years, peppered with many of the author's adventures at the track.

Ranging from knowing when one should bet the Pick 6 to potential adventures with the Internal Revenue Service should you hit the "Big One," Kolb explains the "ins and outs" of it all. He discusses favorites, cost per horse played, syndicates and wagering pools, small Pick 6 pools, carryovers, wagers under $50, wagers to $100 and beyond, wagering online, how the tracks are unique in their offerings.

For anyone who wants to know more about the Pick 6, this is the perfect guide. Dreamers and those bored with straight bets will have a field day with Kolb's book. This man makes you think about this enticing, exotic bet; by the time you're finished reading it (and should you have the discipline and money management skills required) you ought to be a smarter and even more confident "investor."