Blog

It seems like every 5th person in the horse racing community is a handicapper. Everyone’s got the best stats, best picks, best odds, etc. Well, now’s time to put your money with your mouth is!

Penn National will be having the World Series of Handicappers on October 22th, 2011! Entry is $100, half of which goes to a prize pool, and the other half is for a live account-wagering card.

Here’s how to play:

• Entrants must bet a minimum of five (5) bets
• $10 minimum per bet; no maximum bet
• No maximum on the number of races that may be played
• WIN wagers ONLY
• Only one (1) horse per race
• Any wagers made on any races other than a win wager on the designate contest races, will result in disqualification from the contest
• Entrants keep all pari-mutuel winnings
• Contest Tracks: Parx Racing, Belmont, Calder, Monmouth, Laurel, Delaware and Keeneland

Contest tracks include: Parx, Belmont, Calder, Lauren Monmouth, Delaware, Keeneland. 

So, who's the real handicapper? Reach out to us on Facebook and Twitter if you're thinking of joining up! For more info on the event, check out Penn National's website. 

Can someone explain to me the appeal of Jeopardy? I understand it’s become a cultural mainstay- but why? Were the 80’s that boring? Did it come on right after Cheers or something?

Anyway, the Daily Double we’re talking about falls under the umbrella of “exotic wagers.” In fact, it’s the first exotic wager. Used as a marketing ploy to get people to the track early, “The Double” was when a bettor chose the winners of the first two races on the card. Nowadays, a daily double can be any two consecutive races, as chosen by the track. Furthermore, you’ll even see times where the races won’t even be consecutive! So keep your eyes and ears open, because the payoff on this is big!

What’s that? You want more?! Then choose a Pick 3 or Pick 4! This requires a bettor to pick the winners of 3 or 4 races in a row! Neither of these tactics are easy, but the payoffs are quite handsome.
 

Betting on horse racing isn't rocket science. Rocket science is rocket science. So, let us help you along the way! 

Seriously, when in doubt, ask a pro. In this day an age, you may confuse a pro with the GOOGLE machine but, in this case, you can leave the gadgets at home.

Case in point: me. I went to the track and bought a racing form. Why? Because I asked a professional and she told me this would be a good place to start. Next I got a round of drinks for me and my friends. Nobody told me to do that but I thought it was a nice gesture. Next, we poured over the form for a few races, trying to figure the darn thing out.

I'm a smart cookie but that thing was GREEK TO ME. So, I asked a pro. Our server. Talk about an expert. She had us in there, betting like we knew what in the heck was going on. It was cool fun for a few races to compare jockeys and times and horses and owners. You know, make an informed decision.

Now, while my informed decision had absolutely no bearing on my losing streak, it was tons of fun and everybody whooped and hollered. And next time I can be the pro. What a goofball!

BTW, here's a fill-in-the-blank betting cheet sheet to help you place your first wager.

No time for a vacation this summer? Me neither. No biggie.

Who wants to deal with airports and all that travel hassle anyway? Bring the vacation to you at Harrah's Chester. Gaming, racing, dining and various other activities will keep you rockin on a budget. Harrah's Racetrack has established itself as a major destination for top riders in the country. All this just 10 minutes past the suckers waiting at Philly International.

When you're not busy betting on horses winning big in the casino, here are some cool places in the area to check out.

PPL PARK

Head over to the brand new PPL Park to support the Philadelphia Union, our city's premier MLS team. Located on the beautiful Delaware Waterfront, this 18.5 thousand seat stadium was built for the sole purpose of soccer, and it shows. Fans are passionate for the team, but newcomers are welcomed in open arms! No vuvuzelas welcomed.

The Deck at Harbor Pointe

Looking to get your swank on after winning big? The Deck at Harbor Pointe is the place to flaunt your nouveau riche. This indoor/outdoor nightclub is nestled up on the Delaware River, providing beautiful backdrop for the nights festivities. Only 10 minutes from the Harrah.

Riddle Ale House

This local staple is the ideal place to go to get your grub on. Their specialty is hand carved roast beef sandwiches. It's a comfortable atmosphere with a bustling bar any day of the week (Happy Hour = $2 and $3 draft specials and $.50 everything else!). A "neat casual" dress code.

Trieste Italian Restaurant

Great for families, but also dates and intimate occasions. This four time "Best of Delco" winner hosts an large dinner and lunch menu; all classic Italian cuisine. Head over to Trieste and "experience what it is like to have a home cooked meal at a true independent and locally owned restaurant."

A Taste of Key West

"It'll be like a mini vacation every time you are here." So while you're on your mini vacation at the track, take a mini-er vacation here (whoa, meta). This laid back bar is also located on the waterfront and hosts an atmosphere that encourages fun and leisure. Their seafood-inspired menu comes with great reviews as well.

Custom Bagels

Bagels as good as the city. A huge selection allows you to start the day your way. Bagels. What's not to love?

Why not make a day of it? Or a few-days of it? If you're not familiar with the Shunkpiker's Guide, all you need to know is that along those bi-ways (and NOT the highways) adventure awaits. Lucky for you, the Shunpiker in Chief has done some of the legwork and spotted for you, dear readers, in advance, some of the true gems not to be missed.

Click here to download the Philly Park Shunpiker's Guide (PDF)

Whether used as a guide or a point of departure, have a look-see, won't you? For more routes, visit the Shunpiker.