horse racing

Who Is Bill Benter?

Image by freepik

Who Is Bill Benter? Bill Benter is a name that might not be widely recognized outside gambling circles, but within the world of betting, he is considered a legend. His story is one of mathematical genius, strategic innovation, and sheer determination. From being banned in Las Vegas casinos for his unbeatable blackjack skills to developing one of the most successful horse racing algorithms in history, Benter has revolutionized the gambling industry.

Early Life and Education

Born in 1957 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, William Benter displayed an early aptitude for mathematics. He pursued this passion academically, earning a degree in Physics in 1977. Though little is known about his early life, his university years were the foundation of the mathematical expertise that would later make him a fortune.

From Blackjack to Bans: The Start of a Gambling Empire

Benter’s entry into the gambling world began with blackjack. Fascinated by the idea that mathematics could increase his odds of winning, he started frequenting casinos in Pittsburgh. It is unclear whether he discovered the book Beat the Dealer by Edward O. Thorp before or after learning blackjack, but the combination of the two proved to be lethal for casinos.

Using card counting techniques, Benter was able to gain a significant edge over the house. However, casinos in Las Vegas eventually caught on, and within seven years of playing, he was banned from multiple establishments. Rather than being discouraged, Benter saw this as an opportunity to pivot towards an even bigger challenge—horse racing.

Breaking into Horse Racing

In 1985, Benter met Alan Woods, a fellow gambler with a keen interest in horse racing. Unlike blackjack, where the odds are relatively straightforward, horse racing presented a far more complex challenge due to the number of variables involved. However, Benter’s background in physics and statistical modeling gave him the tools to tackle it.

Benter and Woods combined their knowledge to develop a predictive computer algorithm that analyzed racing statistics to identify the most probable winners. This wasn’t an overnight success—early efforts resulted in losses of approximately $150,000. However, by 1987, the system had been refined to the point where they were making a profit, earning $100,000 in that year alone.

The Billion-Dollar Algorithm

Benter eventually split from Woods and refined his horse racing algorithm further. He focused on the Hong Kong horse racing scene, which had a smaller pool of horses and provided an ideal testing ground for his model.

With years of data and countless refinements, Benter’s algorithm became so effective that it was reportedly making him $5 to $10 million per day at its peak. The Hong Kong Jockey Club, realizing the impact of Benter’s system, initially tried to work with him by offering special privileges, including access to additional betting terminals and exclusive statistical data. However, when it became clear that Benter’s system was simply too powerful, the arrangement was terminated.

Life Beyond Gambling: Philanthropy and Academia

Having amassed a fortune, Benter turned his attention to philanthropy and education. He founded the Benter Foundation in 2007, which has provided funding to various charitable and political causes, including:

The University of Pittsburgh

Democratic Party of Virginia

Rabbis for Human Rights

A New Voice for Maryland

Rotary Club Macau

In addition to his philanthropy, Benter has been invited to lecture at some of the world’s most prestigious universities, including Harvard and Stanford, where he shares insights on statistical modeling and predictive analytics.

Personal Life and Legacy

Benter married Vivian Fung, a Hong Kong national, in 2012, and the couple eventually settled in Pittsburgh. He remains a private figure, but his impact on the world of betting and mathematics is undeniable.

Despite giving away a significant portion of his wealth, Benter is still estimated to be worth around $1 billion as of 2021. His story is a testament to the power of mathematics, determination, and innovation. While most gamblers rely on luck, Benter proved that with the right knowledge and strategy, it is possible to beat the odds.

Final Thoughts

Bill Benter’s journey from a young math enthusiast to a billionaire philanthropist is nothing short of remarkable. His ability to apply statistical models to gambling set a precedent for modern betting strategies. More importantly, his success story serves as an inspiration for those who believe in the power of hard work, perseverance, and intellectual curiosity. Whether in gambling, business, or academia, Benter’s legacy continues to influence and inspire minds across the world.

Photo: Freepik

5 Gold Cup Winners Who Took on the Grand National Challenge

Image by freepik

5 Gold Cup Winners Who Took on the Grand National ChallengeThe Cheltenham Gold Cup represents the pinnacle of National Hunt racing, where only the best stayers and chasers prove their mettle over three miles and two and a half furlongs. However, the ultimate challenge in jump racing comes at Aintree, where the Grand National’s grueling four-mile-plus test has humbled even the finest of champions.

Over the years, a select few have attempted to etch their names into racing folklore by competing in both races. While many Gold Cup winners have tried their luck over Aintree’s famous fences, only two have managed to triumph in both contests. Here’s a closer look at five notable horses that made the bold leap from Cheltenham glory to Grand National ambition.

1. Golden Miller (1934)

Arguably the greatest National Hunt horse of all time, Golden Miller remains the only horse to have won both the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Grand National in the same year. Owned by the formidable Dorothy Paget, he dominated the Gold Cup, winning it an unprecedented five times between 1932 and 1936. His most remarkable feat came in 1934 when he conquered Aintree’s treacherous fences, setting a new course record in the process. However, despite his brilliance, Golden Miller was never fond of Aintree, failing to complete the race in three other attempts. Nevertheless, his unique double remains a benchmark of excellence in steeplechasing history.

2. L’Escargot (1970, 1971)

This Irish-trained star cemented his legacy by winning back-to-back Gold Cups in 1970 and 1971 under trainer Dan Moore. But it was his exploits in the Grand National that further enhanced his reputation. L’Escargot finished third behind the legendary Red Rum in 1973 and was fourth in 1974. However, in 1975, at the age of twelve, he turned the tables on Red Rum, storming to victory by 15 lengths and denying the great horse a third consecutive win. L’Escargot remains one of only two horses to have won both the Gold Cup and the Grand National, a testament to his extraordinary stamina and versatility.

3. Garrison Savannah (1991)

Trained by the trailblazing Jenny Pitman, Garrison Savannah claimed Gold Cup glory in 1991, narrowly holding off The Fellow in a thrilling finish. That same year, he attempted the Grand National, aiming to achieve a remarkable double. Carrying 11st 3lbs, he ran a gallant race under Mark Pitman, finishing second to Seagram. His effort was particularly impressive, given that only two horses in history had managed to win both races, and his runner-up finish remains one of the closest any Gold Cup winner has come to replicating Golden Miller’s feat.

4. Master Oats (1995)

A powerhouse of a staying chaser, Master Oats delivered a dominant performance in the 1995 Gold Cup, winning by 15 lengths for trainer Kim Bailey. With his stamina proven, he was sent to Aintree the following month as the 5/1 favorite for the Grand National. However, the burden of carrying 11st 10lbs took its toll, and he faded late on to finish seventh. He returned to the race in 1997, this time finishing fifth, but never quite replicated his Cheltenham heroics. Despite this, he remained one of the most respected stayers of his generation.

5. Synchronised (2012)

A horse beloved for his toughness and tenacity, Synchronised won the 2012 Cheltenham Gold Cup under A.P. McCoy for trainer Jonjo O’Neill and owner J.P. McManus. His victory at Cheltenham, where he stayed on powerfully to beat The Giant Bolster and Long Run, marked him as an ideal candidate for the Grand National. However, tragedy struck at Aintree. Carrying top weight of 11st 10lbs, Synchronised unseated McCoy at Becher’s Brook before continuing riderless and suffering a fatal fall at the 11th fence. His loss was deeply felt across the racing world, a poignant reminder of the risks inherent in the sport.

The Challenge of the Gold Cup-Grand National Double

The record books show that while many Gold Cup winners have attempted the Grand National, few have managed to replicate their Cheltenham success at Aintree. The demands of both races differ significantly—Cheltenham’s undulating course tests a horse’s staying ability and class, while Aintree’s vast fences and extended distance place an even greater emphasis on endurance and jumping prowess.

Golden Miller (1934) and L’Escargot (1975) stand alone in completing the rare double, a feat that modern-day racing continues to struggle to replicate. As future generations take on this monumental challenge, the question remains: will we ever see another horse conquer both Cheltenham’s blue riband and Aintree’s ultimate test?

Photo: Freepik

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

Gambling For A Living: Jason Coote

 Tony, Dan and Me at Great Yarmouth

There’s no doubt gambling at a professional level is hard work. In fact, I have followed my passion of two-year-old horse racing since 1985. Almost 40-years of honing my skills to achieve my goal of making my betting pay.

To achieve this level of knowledge is above and beyond 99.9% of the gambling population. As the saying goes: ‘You don’t know what you don’t know’ and there has never been a truer word said when it comes to mastering the complex world of horse racing.

People have asked: ‘Why do you only bet on two-year-old horse racing?’

The answer is simple: there simply isn’t enough time to do everything and more importantly there is no need. Such thinking is just one point of the wisdom which comes from finding answers to questions. Because, to put it simply, that is exactly what a successful professional gambler does. They understand their niche to the highest level and work to a method and process that is replicable. There is no logic or wisdom in trying to answer the same questions without learning. For that reason, every question must be answered. The best answer must be found. This is no easy task and leading to this point may have taken years.

Literally years to answer a question.

Decades to answer hundreds of questions.

And the understanding it’s a lifelong journey of learning.

Gambling is about knowledge, skill and experience.

Here’s the important thing to remember: ‘Knowledge comes before money!’

Too many gamblers think gambling is all about money. To a point it is but the days of ‘buying money’ have long gone. We live in a competitive world. In fact, if you could see the competition from the bookmakers and layers, the push of the competent backers you would have reason to raise your game. There is no hiding place. Whatever it takes you have to set your self apart from the crowd. As a wise old sage said: ‘Betting against the crowd.’ How can everyone be right? They can’t. You either know more than the competition or you lose. But here’s the key quote: ‘You don’t need to be the best gambler in the world.’

‘You simply need to be that little better than most.’

It sounds simple but it isn’t. Far from it. You know it isn’t simple. How can it be. The answer to every question can be seen in the horse racing results. They are speaking to you. Listen and you will understand.

What makes a winner?

What makes a loser?

It’s so easy to move onto the next race. That is a mistake. You need an approach, method and process. You need to understand what makes you a better gambler. So many punters simply never learn. They have been gambling for a lifetime and they are at the same level as they started.

That is a travesty.

You may be asking: ‘What do I need to know to be a professional gambler?’

I will gladly outline my approach. As you can imagine, I won’t be giving you the answer to every question because its not in my interests and even if I did it would take time to learn.

You don’t just wake up one morning to find you are a professional gambler.

It’s a pleasant thought but it’s not reality.

Remember the film: Vanilla Sky staring Tom Cruise.

So what sets me apart from the wave of losing gamblers?

To set myself apart I need to know the best unraced and lightly raced two-year-old horses in training. How do I know the cream of the crop? Not just one horse trainer but all of them big or small. How can that be possible? It comes from learning and my gambling partners and I have the luxury of having that information at hand. In fact, we have an updated list of super stars which is the foundation to our success.

This is just part of the jigsaw puzzle.

You need to understand each and every horse trainer. What are their strengths and weaknesses? Both are as important as each other. Don’t be fooled into thinking it is all about finding winners. It is about finding value. You could have a 75% win rate and be losing cash hand over fist. It’s another understanding of wisdom. Each trainer has a point where the winners start and end. Where the losers start and end. You either know or you don’t know. If you don’t understand all aspects of data analysis you will struggle. That blind spot will be your eternal weakness. Picked off by the piranhas until you wise up, learn more and bet with the confidence of knowing.

You either know or you don’t know.

What do you know?

If you aren’t confident in your knowledge then you are not only lacking in confidence (knowledge) but you will be losing.

Knowledge is power.

Strangely, the best bets are often due to circumstance.

If you don’t know what that means it’s another part of the learning curve. Another factor of wisdom.

There is much to learn.

You don’t know what you don’t know. You have to answer 50 questions to see the next one. It’s smiling like the layer who knows more and waiting to take your cash and leave you disappointed.

Until the day when you look back and smile that little more.

I know more.

You take their cash.

This post just gives a brief glimpse through the eyes of a gambling man who has spent a lifetime of learning to be a winner. I have to carve out a successful approach where the devil is in the detail and replicable. Worked into a lifestyle that suits me and not glued to the laptop. As I’ve said a few times here: ‘You don’t know what you don’t know.’

Until the day you do.

If I can help you in your journey contact jason@professionalgamblers.co.uk

What Is A Racecard | How Do You Read A Race Card?

What Is A Racecard | How Do You Read A Race Card? Race cards are essential tools for horse racing enthusiasts and bettors alike, providing a comprehensive overview of the day’s races and the competing horses. Understanding how to read a race card is crucial for making informed betting decisions and enjoying the sport to its fullest. Here are five key points to demystify race cards and unlock their potential:

1) Race Information:

At the top of a race card, you’ll find essential details about the race, including the race number, distance, surface (such as turf or dirt), and any specific conditions (e.g., age or gender restrictions, eligibility criteria). This section provides a snapshot of what to expect from the race and helps bettors identify races that align with their preferences or betting strategies.

2) Horse Entries:

The heart of the race card lies in the entries section, where each competing horse is listed along with vital information. This typically includes the horse’s name, post position (starting gate number), weight carried, jockey, and trainer. Additionally, you’ll find the horse’s recent performance history, such as its finishes in previous races, the distances it has raced, and the surfaces it has competed on. Evaluating this information allows bettors to assess each horse’s form, suitability for the race conditions, and potential for success.

3) Morning Line Odds:

Race cards often feature morning line odds for each horse, which are the initial estimated odds set by the track’s oddsmaker or handicapper. These odds give bettors a sense of how the betting public is expected to perceive each horse’s chances of winning. While morning line odds can serve as a useful reference point, they are not definitive and may fluctuate based on betting activity leading up to the race. Bettors should consider the morning line odds in conjunction with their own analysis and intuition when making betting decisions.

4) Race Analysis and Insights:

Many race cards include additional analysis and insights provided by experts or handicappers. This commentary may offer valuable perspectives on the race, including potential pace scenarios, notable contenders, and strategic considerations. While not all race cards include this feature, it can be a valuable resource for bettors seeking additional context and guidance. However, it’s essential to interpret race analysis critically and supplement it with your own research and analysis.

How To Read A Horse Racecard

5) Betting Options and Exotics:

Race cards typically outline the various betting options available for each race, ranging from straightforward win, place, and show bets to more exotic wagers like exactas, trifectas, and superfectas. Exotic wagers involve predicting the order of finish for multiple horses and offer the potential for higher payouts but require a higher degree of skill and risk. Understanding the betting options available and how to structure bets effectively is key for maximizing potential returns while managing risk and even become a professional gambler.

In conclusion, race cards serve as indispensable tools for horse racing enthusiasts and bettors, providing a wealth of information and insights to inform betting decisions and enhance the racing experience. By mastering the art of reading race cards and interpreting the wealth of information they contain, bettors can navigate the complexities of horse racing with confidence and precision, unlocking the thrill and excitement of the sport.

Photo: JC 2024