Professional Gamblers: J.P. McManus - From Humble Beginnings

John Patrick McManus, almost universally known as 'J.P.', was born in Limerick, Republic of Ireland on March 10, 1951. 

From humble beginnings, McManus rose to become a horse racing tycoon – at the last count, he had a net worth of €2.2 billion – with hundreds of horses in training on both sides of the Irish Sea. He became tax-resident in Switzerland in the Nineties but, while he conducts the lion's share of his currency dealing operation from Geneva, he owns Martinstown Stud in Kilmallock, Co. Limerick, which acts as his base on his frequent visits to the Emerald Isle.

McManus' racing colours, adorned in recent years by retained jockeys Sir Anthony McCoy and Barry Geraghty, were originally 'borrowed' from his cherished South Liberties Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) club. Nevertheless, since he bought his first horse, Cill Dara, in 1976, his distinctive green and gold hooped silks have become synonymous with National Hunt racing in Britain and, in particular, with the Cheltenham Festival. Indeed, McManus is the most successful owner in the history of the March showpiece with 66 winners, including seven during the four-day event in 2020. 

Nicknamed the 'Sundance Kid' is his early years, McManus is also one of the greatest professional gamblers of modern times. At the Cheltenham Festival, two early gambles, on Jack Of Trumps and Deep Gale in the National Hunt Chase in 1978 and 1979, respectively, went awry when both horses came to grief, but McManus finally opened his account with Mister Donovan in the Sun Alliance Novices' Hurdle in 1982. Trained, like Jack Of Trumps and Deep Gale, by Edward O'Grady in Co. Tipperary, Mister Donovan was, as O'Grady later fondly remembered, 'a maiden with a heart murmur'. Nevertheless, having been bought by McManus just a month before the Festival, he duly prevailed at odds of 9/2, landing bets worth £250,000 in the process and offsetting what his owner described as a 'distastrous first day'. 

Down the years, McManus has been the architect of several more notable betting coups at the Cheltenham Festival. 

In 2002, his unbeaten Like-A-Butterfly was sent off at prohibitive odds of 7/4 to win the Supreme Novices' Hurdle and had just been headed by Adamant Approach, who looked the likely winner, at the final flight; the latter parted company with his jockey, Ruby Walsh, leaving Like-A-Butterfly to pick up the pieces. 

Thursday, March 16, 2006 was another red-letter day for McManus, when he won £600,000 in one hit from legendary bookmaker 'Fearless' Freddie Williams, courtesy of Reveillez in the Jewson Novices' Handicap Chase, and a further £312,500, courtesy of Kadoun in the Pertemps Final later the same afternoon. 

More recently, in 2013, McManus landed another Cheltenham Festival gamble with Alderwood in the Grand Annual Handicap Chase, which, since 2009, had been the 'getting out stakes' for the week. Already a Cheltenham Festival winner, having won the Vincent O'Brien County Handicap Hurdle, all out, in 2012, the nine-year-old was having just his fifth start over fences and, consequently, lined up just 1lb higher in the weights than the previous year. Backed at all odds from 6/1 to 3/1 favourite throughout the day, Alderwood took over from Kid Cassidy, also owned by McManus, at the bypassed final fence and drew away in the final hundred yards to win, comfortably, by 3¼ lengths. Kid Cassidy finished second to give McManus a 1-2 in the race, in the right order, while Alderwood chalked up win number fourteen for Irish-trained horses during the week. 

Nowadays, McManus makes fewer excursions to the betting ring than was once the case and appears to be in no desperate hurry to announce a successor to Barry Geraghty, who retired in July, 2020, as his new retained rider in Britain. Nevertheless, with the likes of Epatante, Champ and Easysland, to name but three, at or towards the head of the antepost markets for their likely engagements, in the Champion Hurdle, Cheltenham Gold Cup and Cross Country Chase, respectively, at the 2021 Cheltenham Festival, he has plenty to look forward to.

Author: David Dunning

Terry Ramsden - The True Story of a Man Who Broke his Bond

In his heyday, in the Eighties, Terry Ramsden was the quintessential self-made Essex man of the Thatcherite era. A diminutive 5'4" tall and sporting the mullet hairstyle that was ubiquitous at the time, Ramsden once declared, in distinctive cockney tone: 'I'm a stockbroker from Enfield. I've got long hair and I like a bet.' 

Born in Enfield, North London on January 19, 1952, Terry Ramsden proved financially astute, at least in his early years. By trading bonds on the Japanese stock market and gambling on horse racing, by 1984, he had raised sufficient capital to purchase the Edinburgh-based Glen International Financial Services Company. By 1987, he had increased the turnover of the company to £3.5 billion and his own net worth to £150 million. 

By that stage, his royal blue and white hooped colours had become a familiar sight on British racecourses – at one point, he had 76 horses in training – and he had won, and lost, some eye-watering sums of money. 

In May, 1984, for example, just days before the Irish 1,000 Guineas, Ramsden bought the filly Katies, unseen, for £500,000, but reputedly profited to the tune of £2.5 million when she won the Irish 1000 Guineas at odds of 20/1. 

In 1986, on the Wednesday of the Cheltenham Festival he reputedly won in the region of £1 million when Motivator landed what is now the Pertemps Final and would have won a further £6 million if another of his horses, Brunico – an "immensely strong finisher" according to commentator Sir Peter O'Sullevan – had managed to overhaul Solar Cloud in the Triumph Hurdle the following day. 

Ramsden had apparently been backing Brunico in doubles with Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Dawn Run for some time beforehand. 

Shortly afterwards, Ramsden acquired Mr. Snugfit, who had finished second in the 1985 Grand National, and bet £50,000 each-way at 8/1 on his purchase for the 1986 renewal. Almost single-handedly, he ensured Mr. Snugfit was sent off 13/2 clear favourite for the National; the nine-year-old could manage no better than a distant fourth place, but Ramsden still collected £150,000 on the place portion of his bet. 

Many years later, Ramsden claimed: 'The truth is I had half a million quid each way, quote, unquote. Anything else you hear is bullshit.' 

Further high-profile successes followed, including Not So Silly in the Ayr Gold Cup in 1987, but his 'biggest single losing bet' – £1 million on another of his horses, Below Zero – and the sudden expected stock market crash, a.k.a. 'Black Monday', in October that year, effectively sounded the death knell for the Ramsden fortunes. Glen International collapsed and, in 1988, indebted to Ladbrokes to the tune of £2 million, Ramsden was 'warned off' by the Jockey Club for non-payment of the debt, thereby ending his interest in racehorse ownership. 

Three years later, in 1991, Ramsden was arrested in Los Angeles at the behest of the Serious Fraud Office and imprisoned for six months, pending extradition back to Britain. On his return to home soil in 1992, he was declared bankrupt with debts of £100 million. The following year he escaped with a two-year suspended sentence after pleading guilty to recklessly inducing fresh investment in Glen International but, in 1997, was prosecuted again, at the Old Bailey, for failing to disclose assets worth £300,000; he was sentenced to 21 months' imprisonment, of which he served ten. 

Following his release from prison in 1999, Ramsden went back to working in the financial industry, but could not return to racehorse ownership until 2003, when cleared to do so by the Jockey Club. His first winner as an owner since the halcyon days of the Eighties was the two-year-old Jake The Snake, bought for a modest 17,000 guineas, who landed a gamble when winning a maiden stakes race at Lingfield in November, 2003.

5 Famous Sports Referees Who Made an Impact on the Game

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In the world of sports, players and coaches often steal the spotlight, but referees are the silent enforcers of the rules, ensuring fairness and integrity. While their role can often be thankless, some referees have achieved fame—or infamy—for their contributions to the games they officiate. Here are five referees who have left an indelible mark on sports history.

1. Pierluigi Collina – Soccer:

Widely regarded as the greatest soccer referee of all time, Pierluigi Collina is an icon in football officiating. With his distinctive bald head and piercing gaze, Collina commanded respect on the pitch. He officiated high-profile matches like the 2002 FIFA World Cup final between Brazil and Germany and the 1999 UEFA Champions League final. Known for his fairness, deep understanding of the game, and ability to handle intense pressure, Collina was named FIFA's "Best Referee of the Year" six times. His legacy endures as a symbol of authority and excellence in soccer officiating.

Quote: "The best referee is the one who is not noticed, but to achieve that, you must have absolute control of the game."

2. Dick Bavetta – Basketball:

A legend in the NBA, Dick Bavetta was known for his remarkable durability and longevity, officiating 2,635 consecutive games from 1975 to 2014. His streak earned him the nickname "The Iron Man of Referees." Bavetta officiated numerous NBA Finals and All-Star Games, gaining a reputation for his fairness and impeccable professionalism. Beyond his refereeing, Bavetta's memorable charity footrace against Charles Barkley during the 2007 All-Star Weekend showcased his playful side and cemented his status as a beloved figure in basketball.

Quote: "My streak wasn’t about setting records; it was about showing up every day, ready to give my best, no matter what."

3. Gene Sarazen – Golf (as a Rules Official):

While Gene Sarazen is better known as a golfing legend, his contributions as a rules official in major tournaments were equally significant. Sarazen was an advocate for fairness and integrity in golf, often stepping in to ensure that rules were interpreted correctly during high-stakes moments. His dual role as both a player and official provided a unique perspective on the importance of enforcing the game’s principles. Sarazen's influence helped shape golf's rules into the modern standard we see today.

Quote: "The rules of golf are not there to punish; they’re there to protect the integrity of the game."

4. Steve Bucknor – Cricket:

Hailing from Jamaica, Steve Bucknor is one of cricket's most recognized umpires, with a career spanning over two decades. He officiated in five consecutive ICC Cricket World Cup finals from 1992 to 2007, a record unmatched by any other umpire. Bucknor's calm demeanor and ability to handle contentious situations earned him respect among players and fans. While not without controversy, his contributions to cricket umpiring have made him a significant figure in the sport.

Quote: "An umpire’s job is not to be perfect but to be fair and consistent. Respect is earned by staying calm under pressure."

5. Ed Hochuli – American Football:

Ed Hochuli is a name synonymous with the NFL, known for his larger-than-life presence on the field. A lawyer by profession, Hochuli combined his sharp intellect with his love for football, officiating over 25 seasons. His muscular build and elaborate explanations of rulings made him a fan favorite. Hochuli’s ability to simplify complex calls helped educate audiences about the nuances of NFL rules, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the most recognizable referees in American football history.

Quote: "The game is for the players, but the rules exist to make it fair. My job is to enforce those rules with clarity and precision."

Referees play a vital role in maintaining the spirit of competition, often under immense scrutiny. These five individuals demonstrated exceptional skill, professionalism, and dedication, proving that even in the background, referees can become legendary figures in their own right. Their contributions remind us of the importance of fairness and integrity in sports, ensuring that every game is played on an even field. 

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Which Professional Darts Player Won The Bronze Bully on TV Programme Bullseye

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Darts is popular. 

Who didn't love a bit of Bully it was a beautiful little show that holds so many memories for young and old.  

Luke The Nuke Littler on Bullseye Christmas Special hosted by Freddie Flintoff. 

Originally made for ITV network by Associated Television in 1981. Later, by Central Television from 1982 - 1995. It was hosted by Jim Bowen, a stand-up comedian who was influenced by Ken Dodd and television personality. 

Bowen was a straight-faced comic known for his bad jokes, who used to make fun of guests on the show. 

The animated mascot named Bully wore a red/white striped shirt and blue trousers. 

The show also featured Tony Green who helped with scoring the dart games and sideman for Bowen. Green was an amateur player who became BBC's lead commentator when showing the annual World Professional Darts Championships staged at the Lakeside Country Club in Frimley Green, Surrey. While reading this post, check out australian online gambling sites. He worked alongside Sid Waddell, a talented Geordie entertainer and well respected within darting circles and known as ''The Voice of Darts''. He was also a gifted writer, comedian and nicknamed the ''Theif of Bad Gags''. Waddell wrote 11 published books including autobiographies of John Lowe, Jocky Wilson & Phil Taylor. 

He also wrote a racy novel in 1973 named Bedroll Bella (about a Georgie groupie) that was banned by W. H. Smiths. 

Back to Bullseye. 

In total there was 16 series of Bullseye and an incredible 354 episodes. The run time for the programme was 30 minutes. The programme was created and owned by Andrew Wood and comedian Norman Vaughan who had a successful career in television and theatre. 

The game show was based on three pairs of contestants with one person the darts player and the other answering questions. Unlike usa casino Prizes included a car, speedboat, holidays in addition to a tankard and silver goblet alongside a Bendy Bully (the show's mascot). 

The show was originally on Monday evening before being moved to its popular spot on Sunday. Later it was to be shown on Saturday afternoon. The show was planned for 1996 but cancelled after the network pressured Wood to modernise the programme which he deemed unsuitable. 

One part of the show saw a professional darts player throw nine darts and their total score would give a pound a point for the given charity chosen by the contestant. If the professional dart player scored over 301 the money would be doubled. Alongside this, the highest score of the series would win the Bronze Bully Trophy. This was based on series 5 - 13 (1985 - 1994).

Interesting that the highest charity points scorer was Alan Evans in 1984 with a score of 401. Truly fantastic darts from the Welshman. Those first six darts I couldn't believe my eyes. 

However, the Bronze Bully Trophy started in 1985. 

Here is a list of the winners:

1985 - 86 : John Lowe (380)
1986 - 87 : Lionel Smith (365)
1987 - 88 : Ray Farrell (340)
1988 - 89 : Mike Gregory (380)
1989 - 90 : Eric Bristow (380)
1990 - 91 : Bob Anderson (380)
1991 - 92 : Mandy Solomans (363)
1992 - 93:  Mike Gregory (340)
1994 -    :   Kevin Painter (380)

   

**KNOW THE BEST HORSES IN TRAINING (BEFORE THEY RACE!)**

How Did Ladbrokes Get Started As A Bookmaker?

Ladbrokes is one of the world’s largest and most recognized bookmakers, with a storied history that stretches back to 1886. Founded by commission agents Scholes and Duggan, the company initially focused on horse racing, offering fixed odds on races. Since then, Ladbrokes has grown significantly, expanding its operations to cover a vast array of sports betting and gambling products, including casino games, poker, and bingo, making it a global leader in the industry.

The early years of Ladbrokes were characterized by rapid growth and expansion, as the company quickly established itself as one of the leading bookmakers in the UK. As an aside, I have no idea if they have australian online casino sites but I'd love to know. The company was known for its innovative approach to sports betting, and was one of the first bookmakers to offer fixed odds on football matches.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Ladbrokes continued to expand its operations and grew into one of the largest and most successful bookmakers in the UK. The company was also one of the first bookmakers to embrace new technologies, such as computerized betting systems, which helped to improve the speed and accuracy of betting transactions.

Over the years, Ladbrokes has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of the sports betting and gambling industry including top online slots. The company has been at the forefront of the digital revolution in the betting industry and has invested heavily in technology to provide customers with a seamless and user-friendly betting experience.

Today, Ladbrokes is a multinational company with a strong presence in several countries, including the UK, Ireland, Belgium, Spain, and Australia. The company's online platform offers a wide range of sports betting and gambling products, and its mobile app allows customers to place bets and manage their accounts from anywhere, at any time.

One of the key factors behind Ladbrokes' success is its commitment to innovation and its focus on providing the best possible customer experience. The company has a strong focus on customer service and offers a range of tools and resources to help customers manage their betting activities and stay in control of their spending.

Ladbrokes is also known for its corporate social responsibility and has been actively involved in several initiatives to support local communities and charitable causes. The company has a strong commitment to promoting responsible gambling and has implemented a range of measures to help prevent problem gambling and to promote responsible gambling practices.

In conclusion, Ladbrokes is a true success story and a testament to the company's rich history and its commitment to innovation and customer service. The company's journey from a small commission agent to a multinational bookmaker is a testament to its ability to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of the betting industry. Ladbrokes' commitment to responsible gambling and its focus on providing the best possible customer experience has helped to make it one of the most trusted and respected names in the sports betting and gambling industry.

Are Speculative Bets Good or Bad News?

Who doesn't love a big priced winner? 

I've had a few decent winners in my time. For example, winning £1,800 for a bet of £60. You know what I'm going to say, there have been far too many near misses or horses I didn't bet which turned into longterm regrets. The most disappointing bet of my life is one of these said outsiders. Unbelievably, it was priced over 300/1 on Betfair. You may be thinking I'm talking from the realms of cloud cuckoo land but as God is my judge it's perfectly true. A bet of just £35 to £10,000. With every winning stride of pure joy turned to dismay with the cruellest twist of fate.  

In the final half-furlong, the saddle slipped and the jockey went over the port side. I could have done with a big drink of something stronger after that misdemeanour.  

I am confident the horse would have won. You don't expect the saddle to slip on the Flat turf. But there you go. Gambling is never straight forward and winning and losing just moments in time. 

My brother has won a lot of money from a handful of speculative bets. For example, a bet of £20 to win £4,000. The horse was called Puggy, winning on debut for a relatively unknown horse trainer Roy Arne Kvisla, who had a season or two in the UK, after being a big name in his native Sweden. As it happened Puggy was a very classy filly who went on to compete in the Newmarket 1,000 Guineas. Anyway, that is another story, but a fantastic memory of what can happen when you bet on a horse at huge odds. 

Take a look at the race result here. 

Tony has had many similar days where he seemingly did the impossible. 

After all this talk, you must be thinking why wouldn't anyone be betting on 100/1 shots left, right and centre.

Here's the problem, not every outsider is value. Just as you need to assess the favourite because it's short odds you need to do the same with the rag to make sure it has something going for it. 

In many respects, betting on huge priced horses can be a frustrating business. However, good you are at finding these potential diamonds in the sand the strike rate is going to be low. It's the nature of the beast. 

Outsiders are a mirror image of favourites. 

Instead of a high win rate, you bet less in an attempt to win more. 

It may well be easier to put £2,000 on an even-money favourite than bet £10 at 200/1. The only answer to that question is your knowledge, insight and understanding.

The problem with betting on outsiders is that you feel you can take a risk because you only need one to pop up once in a blue moon.

That is true to a point. But as with so many things, it's a strength and weakness. Similar to the punter who does an each-way double to make a bet because the prices of each doesn't allow a single each-way wager. 

Are you trying to be too clever or trying to make a cup of tea with your beautifully crafted chocolate teapot? 

When betting outsiders you cannot afford to think just because you have big odds anything goes. 

It doesn't. 

Each and every speculative bet needs to be assessed as if you are looking at a favourite. Can it win? Is it value? Can it really beat the favourite... the list goes on. 

If these bets are pinned simply on the size of the betting odds you will be frustrated by the losses and the realisation (after the event) that very few were good bets. 

At best, speculative bets can be the turning point of a betting year or even a life-changing event. 

The day Eric Winner tipped a 100/1 winner!

When done to their best, they are a wonderful moment. To see that 100/1 shot hit the finishing line first is something very few punters will ever experience. However, betting on a big priced horse takes knowledge which far exceeds the favourite backers. Unless you have the odds in your favour the price means nothing at all. 

Good luck to all. 

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How Did Betfair Get Started As A Bookmaker?

Betfair is a leading online bookmaker that was established in 2000. Based in the United Kingdom, the company is well known for its innovative approach to sports betting, which includes a wide range of betting options and a strong online presence. Over the years, Betfair has become one of the most recognizable names in the industry and is one of the largest bookmakers in the world.

One of the key strengths of Betfair is its exchange model, which allows customers to bet against each other instead of betting against the bookmaker. This model offers customers greater control over their betting experience and provides more opportunities for them to win. In addition to this, Betfair offers a wide range of betting options, including sports betting, live betting, casino games, and more. The company's sports betting offering is particularly extensive, with a wide range of sports and events covered, including football, basketball, tennis, golf, and more.

Another key feature of Betfair is its user-friendly website, which makes it easy for customers to place bets, manage their accounts, and access the wide range of betting options that the company offers. The site is available in multiple languages and offers 24/7 customer support, ensuring that customers can get help and support whenever they need it. Betfair also offers a mobile betting app, which allows customers to place bets on the go, making it even easier and more convenient to enjoy the company's betting services.

In addition to its innovative exchange model and extensive range of betting options, Betfair is known for its commitment to responsible gambling. The company has implemented a number of measures to help prevent gambling addiction and promote responsible gambling, including setting deposit limits, providing information on the risks of gambling, and offering self-exclusion options. This commitment to responsible gambling is one of the reasons why Betfair has become such a trusted and respected brand in the industry. 

Betfair is also known for its competitive odds and high-quality customer service. The company's experienced team of professionals are available 24/7 to provide customers with support and assistance, ensuring that they have the best possible betting experience. This high level of customer service is a major factor in Betfair's success and has helped the company to establish a strong and loyal customer base.

In conclusion, Betfair is a leading online bookmaker that offers a unique exchange model, a wide range of betting options, and a commitment to responsible gambling. With competitive odds, high-quality customer service, and a user-friendly platform, Betfair is a bookmaker that is definitely worth considering for anyone looking to place bets online. Whether you are a seasoned bettor or a newcomer to the world of sports betting, Betfair is a bookmaker that is sure to provide you with an enjoyable and rewarding betting experience.

Which Racecourse is your Nemesis to Bet?

I am coming out in a cold sweat just thinking about this question. 

Perhaps I should just run my fingernails up a rubber boot, or chalkboard or jump in a vat of fermenting horse shit.

In truth, I don't think I would take any of those options in favour of betting at my nemesis course. 

Although, give me a year or two and you may find me standing on the edge of a highrise car park in Milton Keynes. I'll be babbling on about Brighton and holding a tuft of luscious, green grass in one hand and a losing betting slip in the other as I take flight plummeting like a stone. 

I really do paint a rosy picture, hey. As dark as blood. 

So, on a lighter more jovial thought, which racecourse do you just dread to bet? 

Even if you have been following a horse, it's primed to win and even the trainer's wife gave you the wink as she breezed through the paddock in a flowing summer dress, you start to question the double gamble which you know is wrestling within the brain. Like a devil and angel on either shoulder, a tug-of-war where the rope enters your left ear and exits the right and the friction from all the pulling too and throw carves your grey matter like a pork cheese. 

Betting on the said horse is a gamble but the fact it is running at your nemesis course is the kiss of death. 

Now, for no particular reason, your despicable course may be different from mine. You may say Chester and I'm almost mocking you with the fact that I'm like a winning machine there.

Don't talk to me about Epsom Downs, I've never backed a loser. 

It's so easy. 

But Brighton...

I mean, I love the Royal Crescent. 

But ask me to bet at Brighton racecourse and I go quiet. You can see my brain working overtime trying to resolve some crazy equation that even Isaac Newton would run from. 

But you know what it's like...

I really fancy that horse today. 

Trying not to think about the last twenty-five bets that went south. Trying to convince myself that some old, ghostly witch that had been following me around the course for years had finally died or given up the ghost (so to speak).

Let's face it, even the bubonic plague died off in the end. 

So I chance my luck with a bet. I'm sure it will be ok. Just take a few deep breaths of the beautiful sea air and think pretty thoughts. 

As soon as the stalls open I realise the old witch has climbed on my back, whispering words of death and pointing me in the direction of Milton Keynes. 

I wonder, which course do you fear to bet?

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Why Do Men Go to the Pub: To Talk Shit & Tell Lies

Unfortunately, we can't go to the pub with the lockdown but I'm sure we can all associate with this blog title. 

It was inspired by my actor friend, Simon Fowler, who does a daily live chat on Facebook. He talks about life and all the toils and tribulations. Also, all the love in the world which he says in his own kind of way. 

He talks about mental health and issues especially true to men who have often suffered from the British stiff upper lip. 

Simon quoted the comedians Mel Smith and Griff Rhys Jones. When they used to sit across the table and chat about nothing (but at the same time everything). 

I used to drink like a fish when I played rugby union for March Bear, based in the Fenland town of March in Cambridgeshire. As I have said about my experiences of playing rugby it is a sport you learn a lot about yourself and others. One thing you can guarantee is that if you play rugby long enough, you will suffer an injury or two. I noticed with the forwards and lot of dislocated shoulders, the odd broken leg, nose, and even jaw. 

No wonder people used to like a good drink after the game - it was a pain killer. 

I must admit I've never been too much of a drinker at the races because the combination of alcohol and betting isn't a good mix. Not even Del Trotter would have a Creme De La Menthe at Kempton Park. To be fair, people have outlandish stories about gambling before they get stuck into the amber nectar. 

We'd go to Yarmouth races and then spend an evening at the Grosvenor casino. You don't need many pints an hour to slip under the table. 

In fact, the last time we went, just before lockdown, my cousin, who I won't name, returned from the casino at 6am. 

I concluded that he must have been winning at 4am because drink and tiredness must-have set in by stupid o'clock. I figured winning was the motivation to keep alert enough to play a few more hands of three-card poker (a game that really plays itself). I don't know what sort of conversation was going on but it was definitely pub talk. I'm sure there were a bit of swearing and pork pies too. 

As the old TV advert used to say: ''It's good to talk.''

It is good that in recent years people have felt more open to express their concerns about mental health because we have all had our moments. Once upon a time, people were stigmatised by saying they were struggling. I'm not saying people are still not tarred with the same brush but I think the UK is more accepting (especially in times of lockdown) that people may be suffering. 

And, you know, I'm pretty sure that's why so many men love to go to the pub and talk shit and tell lies. 

If anyone is struggling with depression or mental health problems then it is good to talk. 

So often in life, all we need is someone to stop for a few minutes to listen. 

If I can help, I'm always here.

Photo: Pixabay free for commercial use and no attribution but given

Harry Findlay: No Value in Betting Odds-on

Harry Findlay is a name synonymous with gambling. 

To be fair, he's been a gambler who lives his life on a roller coaster. I always thought he was a touch too loud for his own good and me being an introvert far too much for my senses. But the losses he has suffered in recent years have tamed his enthusiasm, knocked the stuffing out of him. 

I'm not surprised he is a slightly quieter version of himself. Time, life, problems can have that affect on the best of us. 

For most of his gambling life he loved to bet short-priced favourites. It's no surprise as he detailed there was value in a 1/2f that should have been 2/9. 

I've been trawling YouTube and see Star Sports have a series of 5 videos about the good man. They are well worth a look and he talks candidly about life, gambling and hopes for the future. 

I wish him well. He's a decent bloke.

It's interesting what he said about betting short odds. The value has gone with bots placing bets via algorithms (no emotion) which have stripped away value to a point where he questions whether it is even possible to make any cash. 

It's an interesting thought. 

From watching two-year-old horse racing it always amazes me why punters back odds-ons even though they can take some beating. If they are short odds, I would much rather take them on and back a decent second favourite at 9/2. In fact, if you have a decent second or third favourite they can make a much better alternative. The bookies have a horse at 6/1 and the exchanges have them at 11. That's has to be viewed as value without much thought as the bookies are going almost half the odds for a laugh. It doesn't mean that all are value but when one wins at those magnified odds it has to tell a story. 

Why would you bet odds on?

Each horse must be judged on their merits and I'm not saying there can't be value in any bet because there can. 

However, if finding value in betting odds-on horses is a rare happening then it details there is value betting others.

Take a look at this series of five video and see what you think. 

#BettingPeople