Betting First Time Starters

You turn the page in your program only to see Maiden Special Weights and two horses out of ten have previous starts. You actually start to think about having a beer and sitting this race out. Why toss good money on a first time starter when you have nice allowance horses going in the next race?

There are several things you can look for to whittle down the field. Today's racing form and programs have valuable information included in them including trainers stats with first time starters, two year olds and prices paid for the colt or filly at the many sales. Look for at least one nice work as most trainers need to see one before bringing a first timer over from the backside.

One nifty little handicapping angle is to watch for first time starters with blinkers. This often means a horse is "well intended" for todays race, as opposed to others in the race that may still need seasoning and fitness.

Watch for certain stallions that are known to throw precocious youngsters. Fist time starters by these stallions often break their maiden first time out. Watch the tote board for any large swings in the pools.

Good luck and remember, even Secretariat, Seattle Slew and Personal Ensign were once first time starters !!