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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:

To get married to a beautiful woman.
To become a millionaire.
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 Consider Buying 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

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

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People Watching at the Casino: 5 Funny and Bizarre Sightings

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People Watching at the Casino: 5 Funny and Bizarre Sightings Casinos are a sensory overload—a mix of flashing lights, chiming slot machines, and a unique blend of humanity. For those who enjoy people watching, few places are more entertaining. From high-rolling gamblers to quirky characters, you’ll witness the funny, strange, and downright bizarre. Here are five unusual sightings you might come across at a casino.

1. The Pajama Gambler:

Casinos operate 24/7, and for some, the allure of hitting the jackpot at 3 a.m. is just too strong—so much so they don’t even bother getting dressed. Enter the Pajama Gambler: a person strolling through the casino floor in full sleepwear, fuzzy slippers included. Whether they’ve just rolled out of bed or never made it there in the first place, the sight of someone placing high-stakes bets in cartoon-themed pajamas is enough to make anyone chuckle. The best part is, they often seem completely unbothered by their casual attire, intensely focused on the game.

2. The Compulsive Button Masher:

Slot machines bring out the inner child in some gamblers, particularly when it comes to pushing buttons. The Compulsive Button Masher can be found hunched over a slot machine, rapidly pressing buttons like they’re trying to unlock a hidden cheat code. They’ll hit “spin,” “stop,” and every other button with manic energy, as if sheer force will summon the elusive jackpot. What makes this sight both funny and strange is the sheer dedication they show to this button-mashing frenzy, their eyes glued to the machine as if they’re in a trance, oblivious to the confused looks from those nearby.

3. The Overly Superstitious Gambler:

Casinos are full of superstitions, but the Overly Superstitious Gambler takes it to the next level. These are the people who won’t sit down until the clock strikes a certain minute or carry out an elaborate routine before placing a bet. You might see them rubbing a lucky coin, whispering to themselves, or tapping their chair three times before sitting. The real spectacle is watching them switch tables because they believe the “energy” has shifted. If they catch you doing something they consider unlucky—like crossing your legs or touching their chips—they’ll glare at you like you just cursed their entire night.

4. The Human Calculator:

The Human Calculator is that rare gambler who seems to treat every hand of blackjack or round of roulette as a mathematical equation. You’ll often spot them scribbling furiously in a small notebook or muttering numbers under their breath as they analyze odds and predict outcomes with laser-like focus. What’s bizarre isn’t their dedication to statistics, but the fact that they rarely seem to be winning. You’ll laugh when you realize that despite their meticulous calculations, luck simply isn’t on their side. Yet, they keep crunching numbers like they’re about to crack the code to winning.

5. The Overzealous Celebrator:

Winning a bet is exciting, but some take celebrations to a whole new level. The Overzealous Celebrator explodes with enthusiasm over even the smallest win. You’ll hear them before you see them—yelling, high-fiving strangers, and dancing around the table after winning a modest pot of $10. Their reactions are so over-the-top that they end up drawing a crowd, with onlookers unsure if they should laugh or join in. Things get even stranger when their celebration doesn’t stop—some of these characters will keep the party going for hours, making you wonder if they think they’ve won the lottery instead of a few chips.

Conclusion:

People-watching at the casino offers a front-row seat to the eccentricity of human behavior. From button mashers to pajama-wearing gamblers, every corner holds a unique character, making a casino visit much more than just a gambling experience. Next time you find yourself on the casino floor, take a moment to observe—you might just catch one of these entertaining sights.

Photo: Freepik

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Why VIPs at Casinos Often Lose Big (Is This True?)

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Why VIPs at Casinos Often Lose Big (Is This True?) The world of VIP casino gambling is often associated with luxury, exclusivity, and high stakes. Casinos lavish attention on their high rollers, offering private suites, dedicated hosts, gourmet dining, and exclusive gaming areas. However, behind the glitz and glamour, many VIPs are known to walk away with substantial losses. Is it true that VIPs often lose big? And if so, why?

1. The Psychological Effects of Being Treated as Royalty:

VIPs in casinos are pampered to the point where they feel invincible. From free luxury hotel rooms to private jets and access to top-tier entertainment, these perks can create a sense of comfort and entitlement. This psychological boost can lead to riskier behavior at the tables. As a VIP, you might feel like the “house” values you so much that you’re bound to win. However, casinos know that the longer someone stays and plays, the higher the chance they’ll lose.

The reality is that these rewards are a strategic investment by the casino. While they may make the VIP feel special, their purpose is to keep the player at the tables for extended periods, increasing the likelihood of losses. The more time spent gambling, the more the odds tilt in favor of the house. This could be seen in the fascinating documentary by Louis Theroux: Gambling in Las Vegas.

2. Playing With Larger Sums – Larger Losses:

The stakes for VIP players are significantly higher than for the average gambler. With access to enormous credit lines and large bankrolls, VIPs can place massive bets. While a regular player might be cautious with their funds, knowing they only have a limited amount to play with, VIPs are encouraged to play without the same level of caution. Losing $10,000 or even $100,000 in a single night might not faze a high roller, but these losses accumulate fast.

For every massive jackpot or win that a VIP player might celebrate, there are far more sessions that result in substantial losses. Casinos rely on this: the thrill of a huge win keeps the VIP coming back, but statistically, the house edge ensures that the player will eventually lose.

3. The Misleading Lure of Comps and Bonuses:

VIPs are often lured into playing longer or more aggressively by the promise of comps—free bonuses, trips, and rewards. While these perks seem appealing, they can obscure the reality of the situation. A player might feel that they’re “winning” in the sense that they’re getting free vacations or other perks, but in reality, those rewards are often a fraction of what they’ve lost gambling. Casinos are masters at creating a sense of value around comps, even though, over time, most VIPs are spending far more than they’re receiving.

4. The Nature of Games: House Always Has an Edge:

No matter how skilled or lucky a player may be, every casino game is designed with a house edge. Even games like blackjack, where a player can develop a strategy, have a built-in advantage for the casino. For games of chance like roulette or slots, the odds are even more skewed against the player. As VIPs spend more time and money at the tables, the house edge ensures that, in the long run, the casino profits more than the player.

5. VIP Gambling: A Game of Ego:

Another factor in VIP losses is ego. High rollers are often used to success in their personal or professional lives. When faced with a loss at the casino, their instinct may be to chase their losses, believing that with one big win, they can recover everything. Unfortunately, this mindset leads many VIPs to dig themselves into deeper financial holes.

Who Could Forget Mattress King Allan Erlick

Conclusion:

It is indeed true that VIPs at casinos often lose big. Despite their wealth and the special treatment they receive, the house edge, the psychology of rewards, and the nature of high-stakes gambling work against them. While casinos thrive on the image of VIPs winning big, the reality is that most high rollers walk away with significant losses over time, making them some of the most valuable customers for the casino.

Photo: Freepik

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Noel Le Mare: 3 Ambitions in Life

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

The 5 Most Important Factors When Choosing a Laptop

1. Performance: Processor (CPU) and RAM

2. Storage: SSD vs HDD

3. Screen Size and Resolution

4. Battery Life

5. Budget and Brand

You May Also Want to Consider These Metrics

Anything Else?

5 Horse Trainers Who Love To Bet On Their Horses

People Watching at the Casino: 5 Funny and Bizarre Sightings

Why VIPs at Casinos Often Lose Big (Is This True?)

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