Nick Mordin is a name synonymous with innovation and a fearless approach to horse racing analysis. For decades, his work reshaped how punters approached betting, moving from gut feeling and conventional wisdom to a more systematic, evidence-based process. Mordin’s influence stretches across multiple facets of racing, from his iconic books to his highly regarded articles that appeared in The Weekender and other publications. His insights into speed ratings and his detailed analysis of horses’ sectional timings set him apart as a pioneer.
His seminal book, Betting for a Living (1992), was the gateway for many bettors to think about racing in a whole new light. Rather than simply focusing on form or intuition, Mordin advocated for a data-led approach that relied on patterns and timings. This book was unique in that it introduced a full-blown system, not just tips or anecdotal advice. For many, it was an eye-opener on how to treat betting as a serious, consistent profit-making activity rather than a hobby.
Mordin on Time (1996) is perhaps his most significant contribution to the sport. He was among the first to suggest that sectional timing—breaking down a race into smaller segments to analyze horses’ speed—was a more accurate way of assessing a horse’s ability. This insight came at a time when UK racing paid little attention to speed ratings, making Mordin a trailblazer in this respect.
In Winning Without Thinking (2002), he took his methodology even further, analyzing thousands of races and crafting systems that would stand the test of time. He examined betting from both a mathematical and psychological angle, demonstrating how bettors often sabotage themselves with emotional decisions. The result was a blueprint for strategic betting that has inspired countless professionals.
His writing in The Weekender also became legendary, where he would dive deep into niche topics, such as how to spot future top-class two-year-olds. Articles like “In a Class of Their Own” still resonate today and continue to be referenced by punters looking to gain an edge.
He wasn’t afraid to go against the grain, even if it meant taking on big names in racing or making predictions that seemed bold or controversial, like his disagreement with Harry Findlay over Denman’s Gold Cup chances.
Despite disappearing from the public eye in recent years, Nick Mordin’s legacy continues to inspire and educate a new generation of punters. His approach—rooted in analytical thinking, skepticism of accepted norms, and constant refinement of betting strategies—has stood the test of time. In a world where data has become more valuable than ever in betting, Mordin’s work feels prophetic. His absence from the scene only adds to his enigmatic aura, but his ideas continue to thrive in the hands of those willing to think critically about racing.
Nick Mordin’s contribution to the sport will forever be remembered as pioneering, thought-provoking, and ahead of its time. He transformed the landscape of betting, not just by offering tips, but by teaching bettors how to think, analyze, and ultimately win. Wherever he may be today, his impact on the world of horse racing remains undeniable.
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Nick Mordin was once a name that resonated deeply within the horse racing community. Known for his innovative approach to racing analysis and his fearless challenge to conventional wisdom, Mordin’s work influenced a generation of bettors and enthusiasts. Yet, in recent years, he has become something of an enigma, his once-prominent presence in the racing world fading into relative obscurity. So, where did Nick Mordin go, and what is the legacy of his contributions to horse racing?