To answer your 3 questions:
(1) I have a history of punting. But I'm not one of the professional .01% who actually win. I don't bet anymore, but maintain an interest .
(2) I answered your second question with my above sentences.
(3) To witness how the naive masses, after centuries of losing, still maintain hope....... it's a poignant representation of psychology, and determination in the face of unbearable odds. It's fascinating. It's sad. And it's very, very human.