Picking Winners: A Horseplayer's Guide : Book Review

"Picking Winners" by Andrew Beyer is an excellent resource for anyone interested in horse race handicapping. Beyer, a well-known handicapper and journalist, shares his extensive knowledge and techniques for analyzing races and selecting winning horses. In this comprehensive guide, he breaks down complex handicapping concepts into easy-to-understand steps, providing practical strategies for making profitable bets.

One of the standout features of the book is Beyer's explanation of speed figures. Speed figures are essential tools in handicapping, and Beyer goes into great detail on how to calculate and interpret them accurately. He also discusses the various factors that can influence a horse's speed figure, such as track conditions and distance. By understanding speed figures, readers can make more informed assessments of a horse's potential performance in future races.

Another strength of "Picking Winners" is Beyer's exploration of class. Beyer explains the different levels of competition in racing and offers tips on how to identify horses that are moving up or down in class. This understanding allows readers to gauge the quality of each horse in a race, enabling them to make more educated betting decisions.

Additionally, Beyer emphasizes the significance of pace and track bias in handicapping races. He delves into how the pace of a race can impact a horse's performance and provides strategies for identifying horses that may benefit from a particular pace scenario. Beyer also discusses track bias, the tendency of a track to favor certain running styles or positions, which can significantly influence race outcomes. By taking these variables into account, readers can make more informed predictions when handicapping races.

Overall, "Picking Winners" is an invaluable resource for horse racing enthusiasts of all levels of experience. Beyer's expertise and clear writing style make even the most complex handicapping concepts accessible. With its comprehensive coverage of crucial handicapping factors and practical strategies, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their horse racing handicapping skills and increase their chances of selecting winning horses.

What are readers saying?

Andrew Beyer's book "Picking Winners" has received a range of reviews from readers. Some found it to be a valuable and informative resource, while others found it outdated and lacking in practical advice.

One reviewer commended Beyer's extensive knowledge of horse racing and his ability to simplify complex concepts. They found the book to be a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced bettors, providing a comprehensive guide to handicapping and selecting winning horses.

Another reader appreciated the author's unique approach to handicapping, which focused on speed figures and track biases. They found the detailed explanations and examples helpful in understanding the importance of these factors in predicting race outcomes.

However, some reviewers expressed disappointment. One reader felt that the content was outdated and didn't align with modern horse racing practices. They believed that factors such as class and form were more influential in today's betting landscape, making the reliance on speed figures less relevant.

Another reviewer criticized the lack of practical advice, stating that the book only scratched the surface of handicapping techniques without providing specific strategies. They desired more actionable tips and believed that Beyer's book fell short in this aspect.

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