In the first episode of the latest series of This Racing Life, we visit three yards in and around Newmarket and take you behind the scenes at the stables of James Owen, Ilka Gansera-Leveque and Sarah Humphrey.

Owen us a rising force in the National Hunt game and has stumbled upon Burdett Road in his first season as a jumps trainer, the high-class former Flat racer looking a natural over hurdles so far and a contender for the JCB Triumph Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival. The trainer gives us the scoop on his big hope - one who he hopes could be a foundation horse for his yard - will also revealing his background in the sport and the many strings to his equestrian bow. Between Arabian horses, point-to-pointers and plenty of pre-training, there's plenty going on!

Ilka Gansera-Leveque has her own yard in Newmarket and the only female trainer in the British ranks while also a practising vet reveals her unque background in racing - via the USA and Germany - and reveals her passion for art. A curator, she displays work at her own stables!

Sareah Humphrey is enjoying something of the limelight in the 2023/24 jumps season thanks to the bold-jumping exploits of her exciting novice chaser Nickle Back and the trainer tells us all about the journey so far as well as her hopes and ambitions for her stable star

This article originally appeared on Racing TV and is published here with permission.

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The Triple Crown, featuring the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes, is a cornerstone of American horse racing. Each of these races has its own long-standing history and set of traditions, presenting distinct challenges that highlight the best in horse racing skills and the remarkable abilities of the horses.

The Kentucky Derby, often called The Run for the Roses, marks the beginning of this prestigious series. Scheduled for the first Saturday in May, which in 2024 falls on May 4th, the Derby is celebrated at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, and is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and storied past. This race is run at 1 ¼ miles.

The Preakness Stakes follows two weeks later, on May 18th, 2024, at the historic Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. Known as the Run for the Black-Eyed Susans, the Preakness is shorter than the Kentucky Derby (at 1 3/16th miles) but no less challenging, demanding speed and strategy from its participants.

The final jewel in the Triple Crown, the Belmont Stakes, often called The Test of Champions, is slated for June 8th, 2024. Customarily held at Belmont Park in Elmont, New York, this race is the longest of the three, pushing horses and jockeys to their limits once around the 1 ½ mile track. However, due to construction at Belmont Park this year, the Belmont Stakes will be run at the historic Saratoga Race Course for the first time at the distance of 1 ¼ miles – shorter than the race’s traditional distance due to the configuration of the dirt track at Saratoga.

Kentucky Derby Contenders

Fierceness: The Leading Light

Fierceness, earned the Eclipse Award 2023 Champion 2 Year Old Colt under the tutelage of Todd Pletcher. He stands as a formidable front-runner for the Kentucky Derby. With an exceptional victory in the 2023 Breeders' Cup Juvenile G1, this colt has solidified his position at the pinnacle of the leaderboard.

Fierceness, sired by City of Light, has a record of 3-2-0-0, underscoring his capability and consistency on the track. Heading into the 2024 Holy Bull G3, his odds of +1000 in the Kentucky Derby reflect both his past achievements and his potential for future glory.

Locked: The Promising Prospect

Another of Todd Pletcher’s prized contenders, Locked, has earned recognition following his performance in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile G1. This Gun Runner progeny boasts a record of 4-2-0-2, demonstrating a blend of speed and stamina that could be key in the Kentucky Derby.

Locked, with odds of +5000, is scheduled to compete in the Sam F. Davis G3, a race that will likely be a significant indicator of his readiness for the Derby spotlight.

Timberlake: The Dark Horse

Brad Cox's Timberlake, sired by Into Mischief, has a mixed record that makes him an intriguing dark horse in the Derby rankings. Despite a less-than-stellar performance in the Breeders' Cup Juvenile G1, he has shown flashes of brilliance.

With a record of 5-2-1-0, Timberlake’s odds of +5000 for the Kentucky Derby suggest he could present a surprise challenge, especially under Cox’s experienced guidance.

Drum Roll Please: The Steady Climber

Also from Brad Cox’s stable, Drum Roll Please has carved a place in the top ten of the Derby rankings. This Hard Spun colt, with a record of 5-2-1-1, has consistently improved at Aqueduct with a 3rd in the Remsen Stakes (Grade 2) followed by a win in the Jerome Stakes.

His odds of +5000 for the Kentucky Derby position him as a potential contender who could steadily rise to the occasion in the coming races.

Honor Marie: The Up-and-Comer

Trained by D. Whitworth Beckman, Honor Marie has made an impact with a win in the Kentucky Jockey Club (Grade 2) with a record of 3-2-1-0.

The Honor Code offspring’s off-the-pace victory in November suggests an ability to adapt and perform under pressure. With a record that speaks to his emerging talent, Honor Marie enters the Kentucky Derby scene as an up-and-comer with promising potential, reflected in his odds for the event.

As the 150th Kentucky Derby approaches, Kentucky betting sites have launched early contender odds, offering betting fans a glimpse into the favorites and potential dark horses. These odds provide valuable insights, not just into the perceived chances of each horse, but also into the dynamics and expectations surrounding this prestigious event.

The Wine Steward: The New York Bred

The Wine Steward, trained by Mike Maker, is emerging as a notable dark horse in the 2024 Triple Crown races. This colt, sired by Vino Rosso, boasts a commendable record of 4-3-1-0, reflecting consistent performance and a tenacity that could shake up the standings. Although The Wine Steward hasn't been seen in action since the Breeders’ Futurity at Keeneland, his consistent speed figures suggest a reliable competitor.

Entering the 2024 season with odds of +5000, he could provide a lucrative opportunity for astute bettors. Mike Maker, primarily known for his successes in the claiming game and grass stakes, might not have the high profile of some other trainers, but his capacity to prepare a horse for a significant dirt race shouldn't be underestimated.

The Road Ahead: Preparing for the Ultimate Test

As the journey to the 150th Kentucky Derby progresses, trainers and horses will be tested in various prep races. These events are crucial for accumulating points and honing the skills necessary to compete at Churchill Downs. The leaderboard will undoubtedly see shifts as horses rise and fall in the rankings based on their performances in these preparatory challenges.

Final Words

The Triple Crown trail is a blend of tradition, skill, and raw equine power. As we inch closer to the Kentucky Derby, followed by the Preakness and Belmont Stakes, the horse racing world holds its breath in anticipation.

The early contenders have set the stage for what promises to be a thrilling display of athleticism and strategy. Whether it's the established front-runners or the dark horses and underdogs, the road to the Triple Crown is paved with excitement, drama, and the undying spirit of competition.

There are more interesting articles in our section on Racing & Wagering.

Steadily through 2021, the name ‘Rachael Blackmore’ began hitting bigger and bigger headlines. Initially, it was the racing pages that would headline the jockey as having collected numerous wins, but then, she became national, even international news. Through an incredible rise to the top of the racing world, Blackmore quickly amassed a devoted fan base and etched her name into the history of books of the sport’s most prestigious meets.

Just in the last five seasons in Great British jump events, the Tipperary-native has earned over £1.6 million, not to mention the €6.3 million earned in Irish jumps over that spell, too. Now atop the sport with one of the most connected followings in the world, it’s strange to think that Blackmore just wanted to compete at an amateur level while completing her degree in equine science.

A life with the ponies led to veterinary pursuits and track glory

In the south of Ireland, Blackmore grew up on a dairy farm ran by her father, who also bred horses and raised ponies. Age 7-years-old, she got her first, Bubbles, which helped to cultivate a fascination and affection for horses. Though she would regularly ride the ponies and even compete in amateur meets, her initial pursuit was to become a vet. As we detail in the Health & Education section, there are many ways to study horses and horse health, with Blackmore taking the formal route of gaining a degree in equine science.

Throughout her course, she’d continue to compete in amateur races, even to the extent that she graduated in absentia as there was a race on the day of the ceremony. The now-31-year-old’s racing days span back to the early ‘00s, even though she never wanted to become a professional jockey – just wanting to ride horses and compete. In 2004, in a race that’s now scribed as the origins of a modern rivalry, she faced Paul Townend for a pony race in Cork.

Blackmore officially turned professional in 2015, with it taking half a year for her to find her first victory. By her own admission, she wasn’t the kind of standout amateur jockey that would usually transition to the professional ranks. As it turns out, all that was needed was the experience of riding as a pro to ignite a future champion jockey. Throughout her rise to prominence, it’s been stated that Blackmore has a smart racing brain, so she just needed the runs and the horses to back it all up.

Read more: Rise of Rachael Blackmore: From Equine Science to Racing Hero

For as long as we can remember, horse racing has been this electrifying sport that just grabs people all around the world. There's something truly thrilling about witnessing these majestic beasts tear down the track. That excitement has seeped into all sorts of entertainment, even into the realm of online casino slots – those games where you can try your luck and maybe win big. So, let's dive into this article where we'll speak about five slot games inspired by the world of horse racing, games that have raced their way right to the top, promising players a good dose of virtual racing thrills and, of course, the potential for some sweet wins.

Derby Day Delight: Unleashing the Power of Virtual Racing

Dive into the world of virtual horse racing with "Derby Day Delight," a slot game that brings the excitement of the racetrack directly to your screen. This game captures the essence of the derby experience, allowing players to place bets on virtual horses and witness the thrilling race unfold before their eyes. With stunning graphics and realistic animations, Derby Day Delight provides an immersive horse racing experience that keeps players coming back for more.

The game's attention to detail extends to the virtual jockeys, each with unique riding styles and strategies. As the reels spin, players can feel the anticipation of the virtual crowd cheering on their chosen horses. If you want to try out the best slot sites in Canada, check out the top pickups on this page before kicking off your online slot experience. The realism of the virtual racing experience in Derby Day Delight elevates the game beyond a typical slot, creating an engaging atmosphere reminiscent of an actual day at the races.

Triple Crown Triumph: A Winning Combination of Slots and Racing Glory

For those seeking the pinnacle of horse racing-themed slot games, "Triple Crown Triumph" delivers a winning combination. Inspired by the prestigious Triple Crown races, this slot game takes players on a journey through iconic racetracks, offering the chance to spin the reels and win big. With symbols depicting jockeys, horseshoes, and the coveted Triple Crown trophy, this game celebrates the grandeur of horse racing while providing an exciting and rewarding gaming experience.

The bonus features in Triple Crown Triumph add an extra layer of excitement, allowing players to experience the intensity of a Triple Crown race. Free spins, multipliers, and interactive mini-games mirror the challenges faced by both jockeys and race enthusiasts. The game's commitment to delivering an authentic horse racing experience contributes to its popularity among players seeking the thrill of the racetrack combined with the potential for substantial winnings in the top Canadian online slots casinos.

Steeplechase Riches: Conquer Obstacles, Win Prizes

"Steeplechase Riches" adds a unique twist to the traditional horse racing slot genre by incorporating the excitement of steeplechase events. Navigate through obstacles, jump over hurdles, and aim for victory as you spin the reels in this adrenaline-pumping slot game. With bonus rounds that mimic the challenges of a steeplechase course, players can enjoy a dynamic and immersive gaming experience while chasing the riches that await them at the finish line.

The game's obstacle-filled bonus rounds provide players with a sense of control over their destiny, much like a jockey guiding their horse through a challenging course. Successfully overcoming hurdles in these bonus rounds translates to additional prizes and increased winning opportunities in the base game. Steeplechase Riches appeals to players who appreciate skill-based elements in slot gaming, offering a unique and engaging experience within the horse racing theme in casino slots Canada .

Jockey's Jackpot: Ride to Riches with Skillful Spins

"Jockey's Jackpot" puts players in the saddle, allowing them to take on the role of a skilled jockey aiming for the ultimate jackpot. This slot game combines traditional slot mechanics with skill-based elements, requiring players to demonstrate their prowess in mini-games that simulate the strategies employed by jockeys on the racetrack. Players inch closer to the jackpot with every successful spin, making "Jockey's Jackpot" a thrilling and interactive horse racing-themed slot experience.

The incorporation of skill-based mini-games sets Jockey's Jackpot apart from other slot games, offering a refreshing departure from the purely luck-based nature of traditional slots. Players must navigate their virtual horses through strategic challenges, adding a layer of strategy and engagement to the overall gaming experience. This unique blend of skill and chance makes Jockey's Jackpot a standout choice for players looking for a more interactive and immersive slot gaming adventure.

Golden Gallop: Chasing Fortunes on the Reels

In the world of horse racing-themed slot games, "Golden Gallop" stands out as a true gem in the best online slots casinos. This visually stunning slot captures the elegance and prestige of the racing world with its golden-hued design and intricate detailing. Featuring symbols like thoroughbred horses, gold trophies, and prestigious racetracks, "Golden Gallop" offers a luxurious and captivating experience for players who seek both aesthetic appeal and the opportunity to chase substantial winnings.

The attention to visual detail in Golden Gallop extends to the symbol animations, creating a sense of opulence and grandeur. With every spin, players are treated to the sight of majestic horses galloping across the screen, accompanied by the glittering effects of gold coins and trophies. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Golden Gallop delivers on the promise of substantial winnings, making it a popular choice among players who appreciate a visually stunning game with lucrative rewards.

Conclusion

Horse racing-themed slot games provide a unique blend of excitement, strategy, and the chance for substantial winnings. Whether you're a racing enthusiast or a casual gamer, these five slot games – Derby Day Delight, Triple Crown Triumph, Steeplechase Riches, Jockey's Jackpot, and Golden Gallop – offer an array of experiences that showcase the thrill and grandeur of horse racing while providing the potential for players to gallop to the top with significant jackpots and prizes. As technology continues to advance, we can only anticipate more innovative and immersive horse racing-themed slots that will further elevate the gaming experience for enthusiasts worldwide.

There are more interesting articles in our section on Racing & Wagering.

Staying chaser Threeunderthrufive is set to tackle the Grand National Fences at Aintree for the first time in his career when he lines up in the Becher Handicap Chase. It will be his second start of the season, as he finished second in the Grade Three Badger Beer Handicap Chase on his reappearance.

Paul Nicholls’ runner won four races over fences in his novice campaign. Although he did not score last season, he finished in the places in some big handicap chases, including the Scottish Grand National at Ayr.

Nicholls’ Chaser Tops Betting for Aintree Feature

Threeunderthrufive is the +700 favorite in the horse racing odds for the 2023 Becher Handicap Chase. Nicholls will be hoping his horse handles the bigger obstacles on his first outing around the Grand National Course at the Merseyside venue.

Congratulations to @PFNicholls and team on the record breaking 172nd win in a season with Threeunderthrufive #PerthFestival pic.twitter.com/Z0f5gpSDSJ

— perthracecourse (@PerthRacecourse) April 21, 2021

The Ditcheat runner is likely to be one of the leading racing tips for the prestigious chase, as he has shown over the last couple of years that stamina will not be a problem for him at Aintree. He won three times over the distance of 3m as a novice, with victories coming in the December Novices’ Chase and Hampton Novices’ Chase, two races at Grade Two level.

Nicholls campaigned his nine-year-old chaser in some big races last season. He finished eighth in the Ultima Handicap Chase at the Cheltenham Festival, while a month later, he traveled up to Ayr, finishing fourth of 28 runners in the Scottish Grand National. The latter was over the distance of 4m, and he relished the stamina test.

Champion Trainers Knows All About Success Over Grand National Fences

If Threeunderthrufive does win this year’s Becher Handicap Chase, it will be a fourth success in the race for Nicholls. The Champion Trainer prevailed in 2004 with Silver Birch, Eurotrek gave him a second triumph two years later, while in 2007, Mr Pointment landed his hat-trick.

Nicholls also had one of the best days in his career at Aintree in 2012 when Neptune Collonges won the Grand National for him. The grey horse was called the winner after a photo finish, ending the trainer’s wait for a maiden success in the race.

If Threeunderthrufive does shine at Aintree in Becher Handicap Chase, he could be back at the same course in April for the world’s most famous steeplechase where he’d be taking on the defending champion Corach Rambler.

Make Me A Believer and Fantastic Lady Lead the Challenge Against Threeunderthrufive

In what is set to be a competitive field at Aintree, recent Exeter winner Make Me A Believer is one of the horses scheduled to take on Threeunderthrufive. David Pipe’s runner won a handicap chase over 3m in Devon on his first start of the campaign. The handicapper has put him up 7lb in the weights for that victory.

🟦🟨 Bill Baxter leads them home in the Randox Supports Race Against Dementia Topham Handicap Chase

He's on a roll!#ITVRacing | #GrandNational@samtwiston | @wgreatrexracing pic.twitter.com/tgIEzRMZvH

— ITV Racing (@itvracing) April 14, 2023

Nicky Henderson is a trainer often represented in the biggest races of the season in the UK, and he will saddle Fantastic Lady. The eight-year-old mare has featured three times over the Grand National fences, with her best result coming in the Topham back in April when she was second behind Bill Baxter.

A maximum field of 30 runners will feature in the 2023 Becher Handicap Chase and it will be the 32nd running in the history of the Aintree contest.

There are more interesting articles in our section on Racing & Wagering.

Horse racing is one of the oldest sports in the world and is certainly one of the most attractive as it garners attention from just about every corner of the globe.

The result of a race doesn’t depend on the breed of horse as much as it does its training and the jockey who rides it. Still, not all breads are created equal and there are only a select few that meet the requirements to enter the world’s top races.

This list takes a look at five of the favorite jockeys prefer to race.

Thoroughbred

The thoroughbred is by far the most popular racehorse in the world and remains a jockey’s first choice. These horses are loved for their remarkable speed and endurance - they can reach top speeds of 50 mp/h and keep it up for as long as two miles.

This breed is the first choice among jockeys worldwide and is especially loved in America. Kentucky is the heartland of thoroughbred racing, making it all the more attractive to fans as they can take advantage of KY sportsbook bonuses due to sports betting being legalized in the state in late September.

Kentucky, renowned as the epicenter of thoroughbred racing, hosts some of the most prestigious horse races in the world. The most iconic among them is undoubtedly the Kentucky Derby, often called "The Run for the Roses." Held annually at Churchill Downs in Louisville, the Derby is the first leg of the American Triple Crown and attracts a global audience. It's celebrated not just for its high-stakes competition but also for its rich traditions, including mint juleps and elaborate hats.

Another notable event in Kentucky's horse racing calendar is the Keeneland Sales, which, while not a race, plays a pivotal role in the thoroughbred racing industry. This world-class horse auction in Lexington is where many future racing stars are bought and sold. Additionally, the Breeders' Cup, which rotates locations but often takes place at Keeneland or Churchill Downs, is a two-day event that marks the culmination of the horse racing season, attracting the best thoroughbreds from around the globe. These races, combined with the state's deep-rooted equestrian culture and the recent legalization of sports betting, make Kentucky an unrivaled destination for horse racing enthusiasts.

Thoroughbreds were considered ideal for racing as warm-blooded creatures consistently perform at peak levels.

Arabian

Arabian horses originate from the Arabian Peninsula and are used for sport in many territories. While smaller than thoroughbreds, they are markedly smarter and more aggressive. They also have a more defined bone structure, carry their tails higher, and have shorter, arched necks. The differences between Arabian and thoroughbred breeds are immediately noticeable.

This breed is not as fast as a thoroughbred nor has as much stamina. However, it is still a favorite among jockeys and remains popular around Europe and the United Arab Emirates.

Spectators can typically enjoy and bet on an Arab race before thoroughbred events at many British competitive events.

Quarter Horse

The quarter horse, also known as the American quarter horse, is a favorite for short-distance races. It gets its name from its ability to outrun other breeds over a quarter of a mile or less and reach top speeds of 55 mp/h.

According to the American Quarter Horse Association, these horses have been bred in North America since the 1600s and remain the largest breed in the country. That is despite the popularity and money involved in thoroughbred racing.

The breed has a short head, a muscular body, a broad chest, and strong quarters. They are also used as working ranch horses, at rodeos, and other shows.

Standardbred

Standardbred horses, also known as trotters or pacers, are muscular breeds that are heavier than thoroughbreds and have longer bodies. They are typically used for harness racing, a type of race in which horses pull two-wheel carts instead of being ridden by a jockey.

They can be found in many other countries nowadays, having been developed in North America. Their lines can be traced back to England in the 1700s, however.

Harness racing has become popular in many U.S. states, parts of Europe and Australia.

Paint Horse

The paint horse is another popular American breed. It was developed by the crossing of spotted horses with quarterhorses and thoroughbreds. They are normally black and white in color and have large pinto spotted patterns.

Paint horses are unlikely to take part in the same races as any other horses on this list but are still considered among the top sports breeds in the world. The breed is also used in other events such as show jumping or hint seats.

In conclusion…

Selecting the right breed of horse is crucial for jockeys to win races. While the breed itself is not the only factor, it still plays a vital role in determining the outcome of a race.

It is worth noting that many other breeds of horses are used for racing, jumping, and other sports. However, the breeds listed above remain the most popular among jockeys and have a proven track record of success.

There are more interesting articles in our section on Racing & Wagering.

Trainer Aidan O’Brien is renowned for having success all around the world, and the Irishman has revealed that he is targeting the Breeders’ Cup Classic in 2024 with Auguste Rodin, his star three-year-old colt.

The Breeders’ Cup Classic is the feature race at the Breeders’ Cup World Championship meeting and in 2024 it will take place at Del Mar Racecourse in California. O’Brien has yet to win the dirt contest, but he will believe he has an excellent chance next year with his dual Derby winner.

Colt to Remain in Training

The move to keep Auguste Rodin in training as a four-year-old is one is a huge boost for the sport. O’Brien has said he will be considering all the major middle-distance races next season, including the 2024 Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe where he is +2000 in the bet on horses market.

Auguste Rodin is some horse!

🥇 Futurity Trophy
🥇 The Derby
🥇 Irish Derby
🥇 Irish Champion Stakes#オーギュストロダン I @netkeiba pic.twitter.com/wcwwrftzNz

— At The Races (@AtTheRaces) September 9, 2023

O’Brien’s leading three-year-old fulfilled his potential at Epsom back in June when he won the Derby, the most prestigious Classic in Europe. He followed that up with a success in the Irish equivalent just a month later at the Curragh. Auguste Rodin proved himself against the older generation when he landed the Group One Irish Champion Stakes in September, beating a strong field that included Luxembourg, Nashwa, Alflaila, and Onesto.

Breeders’ Cup Triumph in Breeders’ Cup Turf

When he appears at Del Mar in 2024 at the Breeders’ Cup, Auguste Rodin will be looking to complete a rare double, as he recorded victory on turf at the meeting in 2023. The son of Deep Impact landed the Breeders’ Cup Turf, giving his trainer a record-extending seventh success in the race.

🏅 Auguste Rodin absolutely flies home Longines Breeders' Cup Turf!

Pure perfection from Ryan Moore who wins it for a FIFTH time!#ITVRacing | #BC23 | @Ballydoyle pic.twitter.com/V8aVbCC0E6

— ITV Racing (@itvracing) November 4, 2023

Auguste Rodin beat a field that included rivals from Europe, Japan, and the United States at Santa Anita. He was driven to the front by jockey Ryan Moore with two furlongs to go and he was able to hold on by less than a length ahead of the Japanese-trained Up To The Mark.

The surface will be a lot different for the Breeders’ Cup winner in 2024 as he will run on dirt for the first time. All 10 of his career appearances to date have come on turf. O’Brien is likely to give him at least one appearance on either dirt or the all-weather before he travels to California.

Only Two European Horses Have Won the Breeders’ Cup Classic

The stats are going to be against Auguste Rodin in the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Classic, as only two European-trained horses in history have been successful in the Grand Slam of Thoroughbred Racing event. Arcangues was victorious for Frenchman Andre Fabre in 1993, while in 2008, British trainer John Gosden was triumphant with Raven’s Pass.

Over the last 10 years, American Pharoah, Arrogate, Gun Runner, Knicks Go, and Flightline have all been successful in the race, and they look set to enter the US Hall of Fame in the near future. Should Auguste Rodin add his name alongside those horses, he would make a case for being one of the best European horses of his generation.

The 2024 Breeders’ Cup Championship takes place between November 4-5, with the feature race, the Breeders’ Cup Classic, coming on the second of those two days.

There are more informative articles in our section on Racing & Wagering.

In 2013, the great Yankees baseball pitcher Mariano Rivera announced his retirement. It was a strange final season, as Rivera’s travels with the Yankees around the baseball parks of America saw the legendary ball hurler receive standing ovations from rival teams and fans while remaining competitive as he strove to deliver success for the Yankees. What has that got to do with horses? Nothing, really. Except for the fact that we can draw parallels between one of the greatest pitchers in MLB history and one of the greatest jockeys in the history of horse racing, Frankie Dettori.

Like Rivera, Dettori has announced his retirement a year in advance. So across 2023, he has been saying goodbyes at the biggest and best horse racing venues around the world. He plans to have his final rides at the Breeders’ Cup Festival in November. Obviously, it provides a fitting backdrop to end a glittering career, but it will be at Ascot in England in October where the most emotional farewells will be said.

The Magnificent Seven at Ascot

Ascot and Dettori are wrapped up in each other’s history. Last month, Dettori extended his record to nine Ascot Gold Cup wins, with only Lester Piggott winning more. It was at Ascot where he forged his superstardom in the early 1990s, winning his first two Gold Cups and a host of other Group 1 events. It is where the crowds – including the royals – love him the most. Of course, it is also the scene of his crowing achievement on September 28th, 1996 – the Magnificent Seven.

For a jockey to win all seven races on an elite card, as was the case at what is now called British Champions Day at Ascot in 1996, cannot really be compared to feats in other sports. It wasn’t like, say, winning seven Super Bowls in succession; perhaps more like a star quarterback winning seven successive Super Bowls with seven different teams. Importantly for the feat, only a couple of the horses were favorites. The accumulative odds were over 25,000 to 1.

A Feat Never to Be Repeated

The Magnificent Seven has become one of the most fabled parts of British racing history and sports history in general. He single-handedly cost the UK betting industry around £30 million ($45 million). The feat has been celebrated in a range of online casino games, Franke Dettori’s Magic Seven slots, which bear the jockey’s image. Everyone connected to British racing remembers it. And if they are too young to remember, their parents will tell them about it.

Of course, Ascot is special in British racing, and it would be that way whether Dettori had a glittering career or not. It has those incredible royal connections and patronage – its main festival is called Royal Ascot for a reason – and it hosts some of the most important Group 1 races in the world. But Dettori is now Ascot royalty himself. Not just for the Magnificent Seven, although that forms a firm part of the Ascot legend, but for the countless winners and thrills he has given to the Ascot crowds over the last forty years.

British Champion Day at Ascot 2023 will take place on October 21st. It is almost certainly going to be Dettori’s final hurrah in the saddle in the UK. He’ll say goodbye to horse racing in the United States, but the venue where his most glittering accolades were collected will have the most magnificent farewell for one of horse racing’s true greats.

UPDATE AS OF OCT 2023: Dettori Cancels Retirement Plans to Ride in America

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Wagering on horse racing events is fun and exciting, especially the upcoming Breeders' Cup starting November 3rd this year. With all the glitz, action, and anticipation horse racing has brought to many people in the country, it’s no wonder why pro and casual bettors are flocking for a big win.

Whether you're a starting or a returning player in the industry, this article is for you. This article covers the essential Do's and Don'ts of horse racing betting in preparation for the upcoming series cup. Read more below to be a competent and responsible bettor today.

The Do's

The following are must-do practices in the Breeders' Cup 2023; check out below and add them to your betting strategy.

Do Research

Information is the critical component to having a successful betting season. With so much news and information made available on the internet, it would be a waste of opportunity not to prepare ahead and take pointers of the updates and rumors of the horse racing world.

Keep tabs and bookmark your preferred betting sites and news for the latest updates on the upcoming cup, especially on current public favorites and rumored participants in each race. You must clearly set your expectations before the cup and anticipate changes on the betting lines.

Simply put, the more you know, the more prizes you can get. That alone should motivate you to study.

Do Vary Your Bets

This means spreading your wagers and discovering several betting games to broaden your skills and knowledge as a bettor. In the sports betting scene, it is essential that you become a competent bettor to be knowledgeable in various betting games that could potentially play in your favor.

In horse racing, you are not just betting on the winning horse, but on various outcomes you can maximize. Besides, online betting websites offer so many games and odds at different outcomes on a race that you can use them to your advantage.

Do Track Your Activities

The ability to adjust between gaming sessions separates a rookie from a professional bettor. Depending on the betting lines or the state of your wagers, you need to adapt to it and make the most profitable action to minimize losses and maximize opportunities. One way to do that is to track your activities.

By keeping a simple activity sheet and diligently recording all your wagers, you can create an invaluable document to study and use to improve your plays over time. This is especially helpful in losing streaks to determine what causes your losses and wins. Which, in turn, helps you turn over that loss.

Don'ts

These are the cardinal sins of sports betting. Under any circumstances, never do these things if you're opting for a fulfilling and profitable betting experience.

Don't Be Trigger Happy

This means betting before thinking. Admittedly, many casual bettors do wager betting lines without thinking twice about the probability, statistics, and odds.

This results in unreliable odds and a significant risk of losses. That said, never bet on a line you are not confident or knowledgeable about, regardless of how low-risk it is; not knowing anything other than betting on it can be seen as a guaranteed loss. To become a competent bettor, the idea is to minimize losses through knowledge and proper decision-making, not randomly betting and hoping for luck.

Don't Bet While Drunk

Similar to drinking while driving, betting while drunk also garners the same dangers, especially if you're dealing with money.

A competent bettor knows how to play with a clear mind and mood. Beer and liquors dull your senses and inhibit your capacity to make rational decisions. That said, most sportsbook stalls in arenas exploit this by offering such drinks on table stands and other foods and improving your experience.

While we don't discourage you from enhancing your betting experience with consumables, consider moderation, especially on liquor. The last thing you want to know is that you've spent too much on betting while drunk and experiencing the consequences while getting sober.

Don't Chase Losses

Perhaps this is one of the most common warnings you'd see everywhere and for a good reason. Many bettors fall into this financial trap of chasing losses.

By definition, chasing losses is repeatedly placing bets to recover their losses, only to fall further until it affects their personal lives. Unfortunately, millions of rookie bettors and gambling addicts fall over this. Many sports betting guides discourage would-be bettors from chasing their losses.

Instead, always take a step back and relax. As a rule of thumb, if you're betting to get back your losses and not earning, that's the time you need to take a long pause or just quit. The worst thing you can do is dry up your savings and be in a financial crisis.

Final Thoughts:

With the upcoming Breeders' Cup approaching, many bettors are eyeing for the best updates and strategies to take a slice in this million-dollar event. Everything starts with research and due diligence in preparing yourself before race day.

The Do's and Don'ts above signify the essential points of being a competent bettor. Take note of this, and surely you can climb from being a casual to a professional bettor in time for the Breeders' Cup 2023!

The are more informative articles in our section on Racing & Wagering.