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5 Secrets About Betting Sites Not On GamStop

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5 Secrets About Betting Sites Not On GamStop I must admit, I’m very much a newbie to all this ‘Not On GamStop’ betting sites. There seems to be a myriad of websites set up for those who love to bet. But what are they all about? Let’s take a closer look at the inside info about this intriguing subject.

GamStop is a self-exclusion tool where individuals restrict access to websites with regard to problem gambling. No GamStop platforms offer an alternative which bypasses this exclusion so they are free to play at their leisure. Whether this is a good idea is open to question. However, this is what is being offered and the reason we are detailing this aspect of betting.

It is generally the case that No GamStop websites are offshore to operate outside the jurisdiction of the UK Gambling Commision (UKGC). This allows gamblers who have joined self-exclusion programs to bet without objection. As with all gambling, especially for those with addiction, this may be a potential risk.

Here are 5 considerations for punters:

  1. It is important to make sure platforms are licenced and have regulations. Such bodies are often found in Malta or Curacao.  It is important to note many bodies will not adhere to UK standards.
  2. Even though No GamStop it is important platforms offer tools for gambling management such as deposit limits, self-exclusion options and access to support if needed.
  3. Payment methods should be verified and secure and adhere to UK standards. Payment methods should include credit/debit cards, e-wallets and crypto.
  4. Platforms should have a wide variety of sports and casino games. These should suit your preferences with regard to welfare.
  5. Customer support should be available including live chat, email & phone support. Support should be responsive and assessed to meet expected levels.

It is important to remember that gambling should be done responsibly and about enjoyment. If you feel you have a gambling problem seek professional help.

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5 Secrets About Gambler Tony Bloom

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5 Secrets About Gambler Tony Bloom Tony Bloom is known as a very private man. However, when you are a professional gambler and a self-made billionaire the pursuit of others inquisition must slowly creep into your psyche. People ask: Who is that guy? Did you hear about The Lizard?

What’s his secret?

A psychologist may ask Bloom a very introspective question: Who are you?

Or from his perspective: Who am I?

Human. Husband. Father. Businessman. Gambler. Poker player. Football club owner. Billionaire.

I just thought I’d add that last one because I’m sure Tony Bloom would be far too modest.

I’m sure you know the likelihood of me knowing any secrets about the man himself are slim. For someone who is in the business of keeping his cards close to his chest you wouldn’t expect anything different.  Starlizard, his betting consultancy, sees wealthy subscribers become even more flush.

We have a general idea about data-driven analysis, research and a suitcase full of algorithms. However, that only tells us so much and like most knowledge the devil is in the detail.

My ‘secrets’ about Tony Bloom are just basic insights if not bullet points of pivotal moment in a career that has seen great success. For a man with untold wealth, he is well liked if not viewed as a modern-day hero for many punters.

Let’s take a look a 5 pivotal moments (‘secrets’) in his life:

  1. Was influenced by his grandfather to gamble. He loved a bet and owned greyhounds which Bloom enjoyed.
  2. Graduated from Manchester University reading Mathematics. His interest in maths saw him appreciate gambling probability and analysis to become a better gambler. In those early years he admitted he was far from accomplished.
  3. In 1997, he was contacted by Victor Chandler to learn about Asian handicap betting specifically to open up the football market. This proved to be pivotal in his learning and future success.
  4. In 2006, founded Starlizard, a secret betting consultancy where wealthy subscribers bet on privileged information via data-driven analysis, research and algorithms.
  5. Awarded an MBE for services to association football and community of Brighton.

Tony Bloom, a man who can do no wrong.

Photo: Freepik

Noel Le Mare: 3 Ambitions in Life


Noel Le Mare is a name you may or not remember. Although I am sure horse racing fans from yesteryear will have fond memories of this elegantly dressed gentleman.

Le Mare had three ambitions in life:

  1. To get married to a beautiful woman.
  2. To become a millionaire.
  3. To win the Grand National.

When he achieved them all, he had fulfilled his ambitions. He said: ‘Now my life is complete.’

Neol Le Mare was in fact the owner of the most famous winner of the the Aintree Grand National.

Red Rum.

He not only won the National once but three times in 1973, 1974 & 1977. ‘Rummy’ as he was known was to touch the heart and mind of all and looking back to those days and commentary of the Voice of Racing Sir Peter O’Sullevan it still sends shivers down the spine.

However, the story of Red Rum was as much about fate as anything.

For instance, if Donald ‘Ginger’ McCain hadn’t been a taxi driver as well as a small-time horse trainer he would never have met Le Mare who he used to drive every Saturday evening to the local dinner and dance. Their passion for horse racing and specifically winning the Grand National came to fruition.

Not that was as straightforward as it seemed because Le Mare had a horse with McCain which was meant to run in the 1972 Grand National. However, the trainer mistakenly withdrew the horse. This led him to buying Red Rum from the sales ring for 6,000 guineas. The horse arrived at the stables lame.

The soft sand of Southport beach and sea water miraculously healed Red Rum’s poorly legs and time would tell captured the heart and mind of a fans across the world.

Perhaps sometimes in life all you need are three ambitions.

How to Choose the Right Laptop: 5 Key Factors to Consider

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How to Choose the Right Laptop: 5 Key Factors to ConsiderBuying a new laptop can be a daunting task. With so many models, features, and price points, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, focusing on a few key factors can simplify the process and help you find the perfect laptop for your needs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the top five things to consider when buying a laptop, along with other metrics that might influence your decision. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly Chromebook, a sleek MacBook, or a reliable Windows laptop, we’ve got you covered.

The 5 Most Important Factors When Choosing a Laptop

1. Performance: Processor (CPU) and RAM

Performance is the heart of any laptop. The processor (or CPU) determines how quickly your laptop can complete tasks, while RAM (Random Access Memory) allows you to multitask smoothly.

  • Why it matters: If you only browse the web or watch videos, a basic processor like Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 with 8GB of RAM should suffice. But for gaming, editing, or running demanding software, you’ll need a more powerful CPU (Intel Core i5/i7 or AMD Ryzen 5/7) and at least 16GB of RAM.
  • Tip: Don’t skimp on RAM. It’s crucial for seamless multitasking, especially if you keep multiple tabs or apps open.

2. Storage: SSD vs HDD

Storage affects how much data your laptop can hold and how fast it loads. Modern laptops mostly use SSDs (Solid-State Drives), which are faster and more reliable than traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives).

  • Why it matters: An SSD ensures quicker boot times, faster file access, and smoother overall performance.
  • Recommendation: Opt for at least 256GB of SSD storage. If you work with large files, such as videos or high-resolution images, consider 512GB or more. External drives or cloud storage can always supplement limited internal space.

3. Screen Size and Resolution

Your laptop’s screen is where you’ll spend most of your time, so getting the right size and resolution is critical.

  • Why it matters: Larger screens (15-17 inches) are great for work, gaming, and multimedia, but they’re heavier and less portable. Smaller screens (13-14 inches) are ideal for travel and everyday use.
  • Resolution: A Full HD (1920×1080) display is standard and works well for most tasks. Higher resolutions like 4K are excellent for creative professionals but can drain battery life faster.

4. Battery Life

Battery life determines how long you can use your laptop away from a power source. This is especially important if you’re constantly on the move.

  • Why it matters: A long-lasting battery ensures you’re not tethered to an outlet during work, travel, or study sessions.
  • Tip: Look for laptops that offer at least 8-10 hours of battery life for day-to-day use. Remember, power-hungry features like high-resolution screens and powerful CPUs can drain the battery more quickly.

5. Budget and Brand

Your budget will largely determine the type of laptop you can afford. However, brand reputation also plays a role in reliability and customer support.

  • Why it matters: Laptops range from budget Chromebooks to premium MacBooks, so knowing what you can spend helps narrow down your options.
  • Recommendation: Set a budget, then research brands that fit your price range. For non-techy buyers in the UK, websites like Laptop Review can help you find highly rated laptops that suit your budget, including models from Apple, Dell, HP, and more.

You May Also Want to Consider These Metrics

While the five factors above cover the basics, here are a few additional features that might influence your decision:

  • Operating System: Choose between Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS based on your familiarity and needs.
  • Port Selection: Check for USB-C, HDMI, and other ports if you frequently connect peripherals.
  • Weight and Build Quality: Lightweight laptops are great for portability, while sturdy builds ensure durability.
  • Graphics Card: Gamers and video editors should look for dedicated GPUs like NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon.

Anything Else?

When researching a new laptop, don’t forget to check user reviews and expert recommendations. This helps you get a real-world perspective on performance and reliability. Websites like Laptop Review UK are excellent resources for UK buyers, offering guidance for finding laptops that balance quality, performance, and price.

Remember, buying a laptop isn’t just about specs—it’s about finding a device that fits seamlessly into your life. By focusing on these key factors and additional metrics, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the perfect laptop for your needs. Happy shopping!

5 Horse Trainers Who Love To Bet On Their Horses

5 Horse Trainers Who Love To Bet On Their Horses

Horse trainers are often seen as strategic experts, with insights and inside information on the horses they train. Some of them, known for betting on their own horses, have mastered the art of turning their knowledge into substantial winnings. Here are five horse trainers who are not just skilled in training winners but are also rumored or known to enjoy a flutter themselves.

1. Barry Hills:

Barry Hills is a legendary figure in British horse racing, not just for his training accomplishments but also for his infamous betting coups. Hills funded his early training career by winning big with Frankincense, the 1968 Lincoln winner, who was backed at odds of 66/1 and returned at 100/8. This monumental win brought Hills a payout of £64,000, equivalent to over £1.5 million in today’s money. Throughout his career, Hills became known as the “King of the Coups,” using his knowledge of his stable’s form to line his pockets while landing major gambles. His family has followed in his footsteps, with his son Charles continuing the family tradition as a trainer.

Gambling Score: 5/5

2. David Evans:

David Evans, known as the “Welsh Wizard,” is a trainer who has a reputation for landing significant betting coups. Based at Ty-Derlwyn Farm in Abergavenny, Evans has a keen eye for spotting opportunities, especially with two-year-olds. One famous example was the debut of the filly Choux at Thirsk in May, who was backed from 40/1 down to 100/30 and won easily. Whether it’s a debutant at Chepstow or a seasoned handicapper at Haydock, Evans is a man to watch when the money is down. His stable is often at the center of well-executed gambles, and following his horses when they are strongly backed often proves fruitful.

Gambling Score: 5/5

3. David Simcock:

David Simcock, based at Trillium Place Stables in Newmarket, is another trainer whose betting strategies are often well-timed. While it’s not confirmed whether Simcock himself bets heavily, his stable’s horses are often well-supported in the market. One particularly interesting pattern is that his two-year-olds on their second start rarely go off at odds longer than 13/2. This betting trend indicates that when the stable fancies one of their youngsters, they don’t hold back, and the market reflects their confidence. Simcock’s horses tend to win when the money is down, making him a trainer worth noting for punters.

Gambling Score: 4/5

4. Clive Cox:

Clive Cox, a trainer based in Lambourn, Berkshire, is another figure often associated with betting coups, especially with his two-year-olds. Cox’s debutants are particularly well-regarded, and when one of his runners starts as a favorite, it’s often a sign that the stable is confident. Cox’s horses, when heavily backed, frequently deliver, especially with his juveniles, who have a reputation for being hard to beat when fancied in the market. While there is no confirmed evidence that Cox himself enjoys a bet, his horses’ betting patterns suggest that those in the know are well aware of their chances.

Gambling Score: 4/5

5. Barney Curley:

No list of betting trainers would be complete without mentioning Barney Curley, a legendary gambler and trainer who orchestrated some of the most famous betting coups in horse racing history. Curley’s most iconic achievement was the “Yellow Sam” coup in 1975, where he won a fortune by manipulating the odds on a horse running at a low-profile Irish track. Curley’s ability to keep his betting plans under wraps and land colossal wins made him a figure of both admiration and fear among bookmakers. His success as both a gambler and a trainer solidified his place in racing folklore. Sadly passed away in 2021.

Gambling Score: 5/5

These trainers have not only demonstrated their ability to condition horses but also their knack for orchestrating well-timed bets. When the money starts flowing, these are the names that bookmakers fear.

Photo: JC