You have to start somewhere and the best advice I can give you is trade on paper until you think you have a profitable way of betting then start with small bets ($5-$10 per horse, even $2) Its a completely different game with money on the line.

Lots of good books out there. Lots of free stuff on the net too.

Crash is right in that most people don't make a profit but those are usually mug punters who do not take the time to learn and study. It will probbaly take a few years to get it right and get to know thje horses but if you spend a few hours everyday doing th form you will gradually get there.

Good Luck