professional gambler books

Harry Findlay: Gambling For Life – A Maverick’s Memoir

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Harry Findlay: Gambling For Life – A Maverick’s Memoir Harry Findlay is no ordinary man, and his book, Gambling For Life, is no ordinary autobiography. Part confession, part high-stakes thrill ride, and part cautionary tale, the book lays bare the chaotic, controversial, and captivating life of one of Britain’s most famous (or infamous) professional gamblers. For those who enjoy stories of risk, triumph, and relentless passion, this is a read that punches hard and doesn’t let go.

A Life Built on Risk

Findlay’s story is all about risk. Not just financial risk, but emotional, reputational, and physical. From the outset, he’s a man willing to bet everything—literally and figuratively—on a hunch, a belief, or sheer gut instinct. He didn’t start out as a privileged insider. Born into modest surroundings, Findlay quickly discovered his appetite for betting, and he threw himself into the world of gambling with an unmatched ferocity.

Whether it was greyhounds, horses, or football, Harry saw opportunities where others saw danger. He made (and lost) fortunes at a speed that would terrify the average punter. His unfiltered style, his distrust of the establishment, and his utter belief in the power of the gamble makes his story unique, even in the colourful world of professional betting.

Not Just About the Bets

Though gambling is the central theme, Gambling For Life goes beyond betting slips and odds. The book is rich with tales of Harry’s personal life—his family, his business ventures, and his legal troubles. His time in prison, his ban from betting exchanges, and his volatile relationships all find space in these pages. Each story is told with the same raw honesty and bravado that defines Findlay himself.

There are moments of deep vulnerability, too. Despite the brashness, Findlay doesn’t shy away from admitting mistakes or showing emotional scars. His love for his mother, his bond with his dog, and his deep connection with certain friends and mentors add a surprisingly touching element to an otherwise whirlwind life.

The Racing Years and the Rise of Denman

A major highlight of the book—and of Findlay’s life—is his ownership of the racehorse Denman. In a sport ruled by careful calculation, Harry’s brash entrance and massive bets stood out. Denman’s triumph in the 2008 Cheltenham Gold Cup wasn’t just a racing win—it was a defining moment in Findlay’s life, validating his instincts and style. The horse became a symbol of everything Findlay stood for: power, courage, and unpredictability.

The pages covering Denman’s rise are electric. You can feel Findlay’s excitement, his fear, and his passion. He didn’t just bet on the horse—he believed in him. And that belief paid off in one of the greatest races of modern times.

Review: A Wild, Honest, Unforgettable Memoir

Gambling For Life is not a polished, ghostwritten memoir. It’s a rough-edged, brutally honest, and at times chaotic reflection of the man who wrote it. That’s precisely what makes it brilliant.

The prose is raw. The pace is relentless. The emotion is real.

Harry Findlay writes like he lives: without a filter. This won’t appeal to everyone, particularly those who prefer their biographies safe and scripted. But for readers looking for adrenaline, authenticity, and a glimpse into a life truly lived on the edge, it’s a must-read.

Final Thoughts

Harry Findlay may not be a household name outside of betting and racing circles, but his story deserves attention. Gambling For Life is more than just a gambler’s tale—it’s a portrait of a man who refused to play by the rules, won big, lost big, and still kept betting. In a world of calculated caution, Findlay is a reminder that some people are just built differently.

If you want to understand what it means to live without fear—or perhaps, with just enough fear to fuel the fire—this book is your answer.

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Was Dave Nevison a Professional Gambler?

Dave Nevison is a name that rings bells in the world of horse racing betting. A former city trader turned full-time punter, Nevison became one of Britain’s best-known professional gamblers in the 1990s and 2000s. His brash style, outspoken opinions, and willingness to share the realities of the betting life made him a somewhat unusual figure in the tight-lipped betting world.

But was Dave Nevison truly a professional gambler? To answer that, we need to look at his background, how he refined his craft, and the ups and downs of his career.

From City Trading to Betting Rings

Nevison’s route into gambling wasn’t born of childhood dreams or reckless youth. In fact, his entry into professional punting came after a career in the financial world. He worked as a currency trader in the City of London, where he learned to assess risk, handle pressure, and make split-second decisions—skills that would later serve him well on the racetrack.

But after becoming disillusioned with life behind a desk and lured by the thrill of horse racing, Nevison left the City. He decided to try his hand at betting full-time. This was not a weekend flutterer chasing tips; Nevison jumped in with both feet.

It was a bold move, and in the early days, a tough one.

Early Failures and Steep Learning Curves

Nevison’s first attempts at making money through horse racing were far from glamorous. Like many who enter the world of gambling with confidence, he found that success was harder to come by than he expected. He admits to losing heavily in his early years. While he had a solid grounding in risk management, betting on horses required a deeper level of understanding—of form, of track conditions, of psychology, and of the market.

In his autobiographical book A Bloody Good Winner, Nevison describes some of these painful early experiences. The margins in horse betting are razor-thin. One misread, one overhyped gamble, and you’re back to square one. He quickly realized that raw instinct and enthusiasm weren’t enough.

He needed a better system. He needed guidance.

Eddie “The Shoe” Fremantle – A Turning Point

Enter Eddie “The Shoe” Fremantle, another respected name in the British betting scene. Fremantle, a former bookmaker turned professional punter and racing journalist, became an important influence on Nevison’s betting style.

The two struck up a friendship, often chatting between races. Fremantle was known for his sharp eye and detailed knowledge of horses, trainers, and betting markets. He stressed the importance of value—backing horses when the odds offered more than their real chance of winning. This concept, though basic, is often misunderstood. Fremantle helped Nevison understand that you could be right about a horse and still lose money if the price wasn’t right.

These conversations shaped Nevison’s thinking. He began to move away from hunches and toward a more data-driven approach. He watched markets closely, tracked trainers and jockeys, noted ground conditions, and became a student of the sport. His edge came from timing, understanding the markets, and not getting carried away with hype.

The Golden Years

By the early 2000s, Nevison had hit his stride. He claimed to be making upwards of six figures annually from betting alone. He became a regular at tracks across the country, often placing large bets and traveling between courses. He was a visible presence, usually seen on his mobile, watching markets and placing bets remotely with a network of bookmakers.

His success brought media attention. Nevison appeared on Channel 4 Racing, offered commentary for Racing UK, and wrote columns for racing publications. He also authored two books, A Bloody Good Winner and No Easy Money, both of which provided a rare look into the mind of a working professional gambler.

Importantly, he didn’t try to glamorize it. Nevison was open about the pressure, the bad days, the loneliness, and the physical toll of constant travel. He wasn’t selling a dream; he was documenting a grind.

Decline and Reality Check

Despite the years of success, the betting landscape began to shift. Bookmakers became less tolerant of big, sharp players. Accounts were closed or limited. Markets became faster and more efficient thanks to technology and exchange betting. The days of walking into a bookie and getting a good price on a horse were numbered.

Nevison began to step back from full-time punting. He transitioned more into media work and consultancy roles, while still betting—but not at the same scale. In interviews, he admitted that being a full-time pro had become harder and that the betting game had changed.

He never denied his mistakes. In fact, he highlighted them as necessary tuition fees. His openness was part of his charm—and credibility.

So, Was He a Professional Gambler?

Yes, unequivocally. Dave Nevison was a professional gambler. He made his living from betting for over a decade. He operated at scale, took calculated risks, learned from seasoned experts like Eddie Fremantle, and adapted his strategy over time. He wasn’t always winning, but he was always working at it.

What sets him apart is not just his success, but his willingness to lift the veil on what professional gambling really involves. It’s not all sports cars and long lunches—it’s spreadsheets, stress, and occasional setbacks.

Nevison might not be the punter he once was, but his impact on British horse racing remains. He proved it was possible, for a time, to beat the system. And he told the truth about how hard that actually is.

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by Dave Nevison professional gambler professional gambler books 0

Inside the Story of Harry Findlay

Image Source: Freepik Inside the Story of Harry Findlay Harry Findlay isn’t your average gambler. He’s a man who built his life on risk, instinct, and an unshakable belief in gut feeling. In the high-stakes world of sports betting, he’s part legend, part cautionary tale. His journey is full of dramatic highs, crushing lows, and bold moves that few would dare make.

This is the story of a man who didn’t just gamble on horses—he gambled on life itself.

Early Days: A Taste for the Edge:

Born in 1962 in Coventry, England, Findlay grew up in a working-class family. He found his way into the betting world early. Unlike most young men who dabbled in small stakes for fun, Findlay was different. He treated gambling like a profession.

By his early twenties, he was betting seriously. He studied form, watched races obsessively, and trusted his own judgment over tipsters or so-called experts. He wasn’t afraid to lose. That attitude, combined with a keen sense of opportunity, set him apart.

The Big Bets That Made Him Famous:

Findlay became known for one thing above all else—huge, fearless bets.

He made his name in the 1990s and 2000s. He regularly staked five- and six-figure sums on horse racing, tennis, and rugby. One of his biggest wins came in 2008, when his horse Denman won the Cheltenham Gold Cup. That race wasn’t just about money—it was personal.

The co-owned Denman with businessman Paul Barber. The horse was an underdog going up against the superstar Kauto Star, trained by Paul Nicholls. Denman powered home with relentless energy, securing one of the most talked-about victories in modern racing history.

The win made headlines, but for Findlay, it was a dream come true. He wasn’t just a bettor anymore—he was part of racing royalty.

Business Ventures and Setbacks:

Harry’s interests weren’t limited to placing bets. He ran a successful bookmaking operation for years and invested in sports clubs. One of his most ambitious ventures was taking control of the Doncaster Dragons, a struggling rugby league team.

He wanted to turn them into contenders. He poured in money and energy. But the project failed. Financial losses mounted, and the club didn’t improve as hoped.

That loss didn’t stop him. If anything, it pushed him to take even bigger swings elsewhere.

Trouble with the Racing Authorities:

In 2009, Findlay’s career hit a major hurdle. He was banned from racing by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) for placing a lay bet on one of his own horses, Gullible Gordon, to lose.

The rules were clear: owners couldn’t bet against their own horses, even if they believed the horse wasn’t fit to win. Findlay claimed he placed the bet as a hedge, not out of dishonesty. He argued that he never tried to influence the race’s outcome.

After months of legal and public battles, the BHA reversed the ban on appeal. Still, the episode left a scar. His reputation took a hit, and many questioned whether his golden run was over.

Gambling For Life – The Memoir:

In 2019, Findlay published his life story in Gambling For Life. The book was raw, unfiltered, and intensely personal. He didn’t hide from his failures. He admitted to addiction, arrogance, and moments of desperation.

But he also revealed deep love—for his family, for racing, and for the thrill of it all.

Readers saw a man who had risked everything and paid the price. But they also saw a man who never gave up.

A Man Changed, But Not Tamed:

Today, Findlay is quieter. He still bets, but not like before. He’s more reflective. He spends more time with his family and speaks openly about mental health and addiction in gambling.

Yet, he remains a magnetic figure. Fans still talk about his biggest wins and gutsiest calls. Fellow punters view him with a mix of awe and sympathy.

Lessons from the Life of Harry Findlay:

Harry Findlay’s story is a modern fable. It’s about the power and danger of believing in yourself too much. It’s about chasing dreams, no matter the odds. And it’s about resilience—how a man can crash, burn, and still get up again.

His life teaches us that risk is part of greatness—but so is humility. He didn’t follow rules. He followed his instincts. Sometimes they made him rich. Sometimes they left him broke.

But always, they made him unforgettable.

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by Harry Findlay professional gambler professional gambler books 0

The Life and Times of Professional Gambler Alan Potts

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The Life and Times of Professional Gambler Alan Potts Alan Potts is one of the most renowned figures in professional horse racing betting, respected for his analytical approach, deep understanding of form, and contrarian mindset. His journey from a traditional corporate job to full-time professional punter exemplifies the discipline, patience, and knowledge required to succeed in the betting industry. Potts’ legacy extends beyond his own success, as he has shared his wisdom through books, interviews, and public discussions, leaving a lasting impact on the world of gambling.

Early Life and Career Shift

Before becoming a full-time professional gambler, Alan Potts worked in computer operations at Hambro Life, a Swindon-based company. However, his career took a drastic turn in late 1991 when he was made redundant. Rather than seeing this as a setback, Potts recognized an opportunity. He had already been betting seriously for years, and with a combination of his redundancy package, betting profits, and an additional £20,000 from cashing in shares, he set up a dedicated betting bank.

This financial cushion allowed Potts to transition into full-time gambling without immediate pressure, a crucial factor in his success. Unlike many who dive into professional betting unprepared, Potts had a well-thought-out strategy and the discipline to follow it rigorously.

The Contrarian Approach to Betting

One of the defining aspects of Potts’ betting strategy is his contrarian approach. In his influential book, Against The Crowd, he argues that the majority of bettors tend to follow the same patterns, often leading them to make poor value bets. Potts, on the other hand, built his success by going against popular opinion, seeking opportunities where the market had undervalued certain horses.

His method relied heavily on extensive form study, watching races closely, and maintaining a meticulous database of past performances. He believed that successful betting required deep knowledge and analysis rather than intuition or gut feeling. By identifying horses that had been overlooked or underestimated, he was able to find value where others saw none.

Speed Figures and Data-Driven Betting

A crucial part of Potts’ methodology was the use of speed figures. He was one of the early adopters of this technique in the UK, at a time when the concept was more prevalent in the US. Speed figures helped him assess a horse’s ability based on objective data rather than relying solely on public opinion or bookmaker odds.

However, Potts was not blindly reliant on numbers; he combined data analysis with experience and an understanding of how different race conditions affected performance. He was particularly cautious with all-weather racing, finding that his speed figures were less effective on synthetic tracks. This selective approach to betting is another key reason behind his long-term success.

Discipline and Money Management

Unlike many casual bettors who chase losses or bet impulsively, Potts emphasized discipline and money management. He understood that even the best punters would face losing streaks, and having a structured approach to bankroll management was essential.

Potts advocated for calculated betting, where every stake was based on expected value rather than emotion. He was also a firm believer in patience, often waiting days or even weeks for the right betting opportunity rather than forcing bets.

His disciplined mindset extended to record-keeping as well. Potts maintained detailed logs of his bets, reviewing them regularly to refine his strategies. This practice helped him adapt to changes in the racing landscape and avoid common pitfalls that plagued less meticulous bettors.

Challenges in the Betting Industry

Despite his success, Potts was not immune to the challenges that come with professional betting. One of the biggest hurdles he faced was dealing with bookmakers who limited or closed the accounts of successful punters. As a result, he often had to find creative ways to place his bets, including using betting exchanges and working with trusted contacts to get his money down.

Additionally, Potts was vocal about the flaws in the UK’s handicap system. He believed that the system was outdated and often led to unnecessary penalties for certain horses, distorting the betting market. His critiques were not just theoretical; they were based on years of real-world experience in spotting inefficiencies in the system.

Alan Potts’ Influence on Modern Betting

Through his books and interviews, Potts has had a lasting influence on aspiring professional gamblers. Against The Crowd remains a must-read for serious bettors, offering valuable insights into how to develop a winning mindset and strategy. His emphasis on value betting, discipline, and contrarian thinking continues to shape the approaches of modern-day punters.

In a series of interviews with #BettingPeople, Potts reflected on the evolution of betting, sharing his thoughts on how the industry had changed over the years. He discussed the increasing difficulty of staying ahead of the bookmakers, the role of technology in modern betting, and the need for adaptability in an ever-changing landscape.

Lessons from Alan Potts

There are several key takeaways from Alan Potts’ career that remain relevant for anyone interested in professional gambling:

Value is Everything – Potts consistently preached that successful betting is about finding value, not just picking winners. Even a horse with a lower chance of winning can be a good bet if the odds offer a positive expected return.
Discipline is Key – Impulsive betting leads to losses. Potts’ strict money management and patience allowed him to survive and thrive in a tough industry.
Data Matters, but So Does Experience – While speed figures and form analysis were crucial to his approach, Potts also relied on years of watching races and understanding subtleties that data alone couldn’t capture.
Adaptability is Crucial – The betting world is constantly evolving, and those who fail to adapt get left behind. Potts understood the need to refine his strategies based on changing market conditions.
Contrarian Thinking Pays Off – Following the crowd rarely leads to long-term profitability. By identifying market inefficiencies and going against conventional wisdom, Potts was able to stay ahead of the game.

Conclusion

Alan Potts’ story is one of intelligence, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the craft of betting. His journey from corporate redundancy to becoming one of the most respected professional punters in horse racing is an inspiration to those who aspire to make a living from gambling.

His approach, centered around value betting, meticulous research, and unwavering discipline, provides a blueprint for success in an industry where so many fail. Even as the betting landscape continues to evolve, the core principles that Potts championed remain as relevant as ever.

For those looking to follow in his footsteps, his books and interviews serve as invaluable resources, offering timeless lessons on what it truly takes to win in the world of professional gambling. Alan Potts was not just a bettor—he was a strategist, a thinker, and above all, a pioneer in the field of horse racing betting.

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by Alan Potts professional gambler professional gambler books 0

Gambler Clive Holt ‘Easy Money’

Gambler Clive Holt 'Easy Money' I found an old copy of The Sporting Life – Weekender. It was printed in 1994. I remember reading it all those years ago and kept it for a very good reason. My brother, Tony, had sent 5-years’ of research to Nick Mordin because he loved reading his Systems. After a phone call or two, talking with Mordin, the research was in this actual publication. The article titled: In a class of their own. How to spot and back potential top-notch two-year-olds. For those who have no idea about anything, we are talking about horse racing and not children. The piece was very well received and Mordin followed it up the next week with another worthy read.

I know what you are saying: ‘Well, what’s this got to do with Clive Holt?’

Holt a well-regarded professional gambler, wrote a book or two about how to beat the bookies. And, no, that wasn’t the title of the book.

Anyway, I’ve been reading The Sporting Life Weekender and noticed how many adverts were plastered over every page. Clearly the publication was a Mecca (yes, that was a bookmaker of old) for punters looking to subscribe to tipsters such as Patrick Veitch, Alex Gorey, Ray Goldstein (ex-jockey) and books, one of which, penned by Clive Holt. The advert was on the back page. A bit of a blurb about the book, a couple of testimonials, and a little coupon to be filled out and sent to a given address in Morecambe. (no PO Box, to make it look above board).

I’ve purchased a lot of books in my time. In fact, I’m a sucker for a good pro gambler book. I’ve bought at least three of Nick Mordin’s, Dave Nevison, Patrick Veitch, Harry Findlay et al.

The title of Clive Holt’s book: Profitable Winners Always Back Winners. I think this was published in 1992. What’s interesting with so many of these old books is not only was the info worth good money (hopefully, I can’t say I ever read it but would like to) but with the fullness of time it actually proved to be a wise investment. How come? Well, you could have purchased the book for £20 (including P+P) but now on Ebay it costs £41.99. World of Books says it’s: ‘Very good condition’.

It was like backing 11/10 winner.

I’ve noticed a number of these old publications have increased in price. Being first editions, especially in decent condition, they are worthy investments. Have a look at your bookshelf or draws to find a book or two which may show a profit even if the info fell short.

Good to know these pro gamblers can still fill your pockets.

Photos: JC 2025

by clive holt Dave Nevison professional gambler books 0

professional gambler books

Harry Findlay: Gambling For Life – A Maverick’s Memoir

A Life Built on Risk

Not Just About the Bets

The Racing Years and the Rise of Denman

Review: A Wild, Honest, Unforgettable Memoir

Final Thoughts

Was Dave Nevison a Professional Gambler?

From City Trading to Betting Rings

Early Failures and Steep Learning Curves

Eddie “The Shoe” Fremantle – A Turning Point

The Golden Years

Decline and Reality Check

Inside the Story of Harry Findlay

Early Days: A Taste for the Edge:

The Big Bets That Made Him Famous:

Business Ventures and Setbacks:

Trouble with the Racing Authorities:

Gambling For Life – The Memoir:

A Man Changed, But Not Tamed:

Lessons from the Life of Harry Findlay:

The Life and Times of Professional Gambler Alan Potts

Early Life and Career Shift

The Contrarian Approach to Betting

Speed Figures and Data-Driven Betting

Discipline and Money Management

Challenges in the Betting Industry

Alan Potts’ Influence on Modern Betting

Lessons from Alan Potts

Conclusion

Gambler Clive Holt ‘Easy Money’

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