Haven't posted for a long time but wanted to reply to those of you who don't believe that a "system" (or "method" as I prefer to call it) can be developed and be regularly profitable for a long period.

I developed my own method through the intensive analysis of 2 years worth of racing statistics, around 18 months ago and shared some of my ideas on this forum. I then introduced 2 new principles and dropped 2 and monitored this for 6 weeks before committing cold, hard cash.

Since then, my longest losing streak has been 5 races and I am able to make quite a healthy living from punting without needing to work.

Of course I don't want to give away all that I've learned but here are a few pointers for those interested:

Only bet on Metropolitan race meetings. Ideally, select the Metro meeting(s) which has/have the best class of race. eg tomorrow, you wouldn't touch Brisbane or Adelaide with a barge pole.

Never, ever bet on rain affected tracks. Doesn't matter if your selection has webbed feet, don't do it.

Try and concentrate your selections around the top 6 saddlecloths.

Down in class and up in weight is better than up in class and down in weight.

Barrier positions do not play as big a part in the result as often as people think.

The place strike rate % is a better guide to a horses chances than the win strike rate %

Always, always, always look for value with your bets. (I won't bet on anything under $4)

When betting each way, always bet on a 1 win/3 place ratio.

The often touted "within 3 lengths of the winner last start" or similar alleged guide to selections, is NOT a valid theory.

Average prizemoney (Top 5) is an excellent base to work with.

Good luck to all.

Privateer

My method notwithstanding....tomorrow I like

Thorn Park in Sydney
Belus & Sylvaner in Melbourne



[ This Message was edited by: Privateer on 2003-10-03 19:04 ]