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Professional Gamblers Favourite Bets

Professional Gamblers Favourite Bets All professional gamblers share one common goal: winning money from bookmakers. However, their strategies and philosophies can differ significantly. Let’s delve into the thoughts and tactics of three notable gamblers from past to present—Jack Ramsden, Alex Bird, and Harry Findlay—to uncover what makes a successful bet in their eyes.

Jack Ramsden: The Stockbroker-Turned-Professional Punter:

Jack Ramsden left his career as a stockbroker in 1980 to pursue a full-time career as a professional gambler. His success, like many other top punters, was built on analyzing speed figures and race times.

Ramsden had a clear stance on each-way betting: avoid it. He once reflected, “I analyzed my betting a couple of years ago and found that if I had doubled my win stakes instead of placing each-way bets, I would have been much better off. I think all punters would benefit by cutting out all each-way bets and sticking to singles.”

Ramsden was unique in that he employed his own bookmaker, Colin Webster. This partnership was unusual; Webster paid Ramsden £5,000 annually for his advice and also handled the task of placing bets with other bookmakers. Ramsden also had a fondness for multiple bets, viewing them as an extension of his strategy to target large prices. On four occasions, he won over £200,000 on multiple bets.

Alex Bird: The Original Professional Gambler:

Alex Bird is often regarded as one of the first professional gamblers to make a fortune at British racecourses after World War II. Initially working for his father, a bookmaker, Bird soon realized that the real money was on the other side of the betting ring. He developed various techniques to beat the bookmakers, but his most famous method involved betting on photo finishes.

In the days when photo finishes took around five minutes to develop, there was often an active betting market on the outcome. Bird observed that an optical illusion made it appear as though the horse on the far side had won when the horses crossed the line together. To counter this, Bird would stand at an elevated position near the winning post, close one eye, and create an imaginary line across the track. Using this technique, he reportedly placed 500 consecutive successful bets.

Bird also manipulated the betting market to his advantage. If he wanted to back a horse but found the odds too short, he would place a substantial bet on another horse in the same race, leaking this information to influence the odds. As the price of the horse he truly wanted to back drifted, his team would place bets across the country, maximizing his profits.

Here are Alex Bird’s Golden Betting Rules:

Avoid betting when there’s a change in the going—nothing disrupts form like a change in track conditions.
Be mindful of bookmakers’ overrounds—don’t bet when the odds are heavily in their favor, especially at smaller meetings.

Exploit each-way betting—focus on races with 8-10 runners that aren’t handicaps, oppose the favorite, and place each-way combination bets on the second and third favorites.

Look for promising apprentices—a good apprentice with a 7lb claim can be invaluable.

Never bet on the first show—most horses’ prices increase; taking second show prices can boost your winnings by 10% over a season.

Avoid betting in handicaps.

Steer clear of 3-year-old maidens, particularly those limited to fillies.

Harry Findlay: The Flamboyant High-Roller:

Harry Findlay is known for his bold, no-nonsense approach to gambling. He achieved fame and success, notably as the owner of Denman, one of the most talented novice chasers of its time.

On the nature of gambling, Findlay remarked, “If you look up gambling in the dictionary, it doesn’t say ‘this means a sure way to make a steady profit over time.’ It says ‘gambling: a form of interest that can either ruin you or make you a fortune,’ and that’s the way it is.”

Findlay was unapologetically direct about his approach to odds: “There’s no difference between getting 1-2 about a 1-4 chance and getting 4-1 about a 2-1 chance. People who say ‘I won’t bet odds-on,’ they’re just idiots. When you want to bet an odds-on shot, you can get on—when you want to bet a big-priced one, you can’t.”

On the subject of hedging, Findlay advised against it: “When you pick a 20-1 shot to win the Grand National, don’t have £200 at 20s and then go and lay £600 at 5-2 and, when it wins, get £2,500. If you believe in that 20-1 shot, have £200 at 20s, then another £300 at 14s, then £400 at 10s, and if it goes off at 5-2 or 11-4, don’t hedge if you still fancy it.”

These insights from Ramsden, Bird, and Findlay offer a glimpse into the diverse strategies that professional gamblers employ. Whether it’s Ramsden’s disdain for each-way bets, Bird’s meticulous photo finish strategy, or Findlay’s aversion to hedging, each has found success by following their unique approach to betting.

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Professional Gamblers: Clive Holt

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Professional Gamblers: Clive Holt Clive Holt is a legendary figure in the world of professional gambling, known for his sharp insights and successful betting strategies. His words of wisdom are highly regarded, and his approach to horse racing is both disciplined and methodical. Unlike many punters, Clive prefers betting at the racecourse rather than in betting shops, attending races at least four times a week, particularly during midweek meetings. His success in betting has been so significant that major bookmakers like William Hill and Coral closed his accounts in 1978, finding it difficult to accommodate his winning streaks.

Clive’s journey into professional gambling began in a rather unexpected way. More than 30 years ago, a friend advised him to back a horse named “The Holt” running at Alexandra Palace (Ally Pally). That simple suggestion sparked a passion that would lead Clive to make a comfortable living from betting. His interest in gambling can be traced back to his father, who owned a couple of greyhounds in the 1960s and showed Clive that betting could be profitable. One of the first principles Clive learned was that betting on singles was a relatively straightforward way to make a profit.

By March 1975, Clive was ready to commit to full-time punting, leaving behind his regular job. At first, his betting approach was somewhat haphazard, placing bets based on what his pockets could afford. He primarily bet on doubles and trebles, but he soon realized that this method was not yielding the best returns.

When Clive started out, he didn’t keep proper records of his bets. Operating on a week-to-week basis, he often found himself breaking even, with no way to accurately track his profits or losses. This lack of oversight bothered him, leading him to start treating betting as a business venture. He began meticulously recording his bets, analyzing his figures, and tracking his returns.

Reflecting on this period, Clive remarked, “It probably had the greatest influence on my future success. As the figures and percentages built up before me, it was clear that I was becoming more and more analytical.” With detailed records, Clive discovered that he was making nearly a 50% profit on his outlays. By focusing more on single bets, he could have increased that margin to over 60%. This insight prompted him to increase his stakes on singles, leading to shorter losing streaks and better money management.

Another key to Clive’s success was setting up a betting bank, a decision that took him seven years to feel confident enough to quit his day job. He recalls his first day as a full-time punter, heading to Chester on May 6, 1975, in a new Ford Ghia Capri, wearing a new suit, ready for his new career. His first bet of £67 to win £30 on a horse named Western Jewel paid off, with the horse winning by two lengths, setting the stage for a successful streak that followed.

In the six weeks after that bet, Clive made more money than he had in a year working for the Electricity Board. Despite his modest start, Clive has grown into a skilled and successful punter, though he never considers himself a big-time gambler. He typically bets no more than £1,000 at a time but has enjoyed a very rewarding career nonetheless.

Clive’s success is evident in his lifestyle, which includes luxury cars like Lotus, Jaguar, De Tomaso Pantera, and BMWs. His betting career has also afforded him and his family winter holidays in exotic locations such as the Caribbean, Africa, Australia, America, Israel, Hong Kong, Singapore, the Canary Islands, and the Mediterranean. His success in betting has provided his wife and four children with a Listed Georgian Country House complete with a Coach House and Stables, set in acres of parkland near a major northern training center.

Clive acknowledges that had he not quit his job jointing electricity cables to pursue full-time betting, his life would have been very different. Interestingly, Clive has never felt the need to bet simply for the thrill of it. He believes he could stop betting altogether if he found another equally rewarding and challenging career.

When asked for advice to new professional punters, Clive emphasizes the importance of confidence in one’s selections. He says, “One vital ingredient for successful punting is that you’ve got to be confident that your selection can win. Horses with good recent form, preferably winning form, running against limited opposition within their class, when at their peak, progressing or improving, do win the majority of races all year round. They are a constant source of winners for anyone to exploit.” He further broadens this category with what he calls the “four Pros”: PROVEN, PROGRESSIVE, PROMISING, and PROFITABLE.

Clive Holt’s story is a testament to the power of discipline, record-keeping, and strategic thinking in betting. His success has allowed him to enjoy the finer things in life while proving that with the right approach, professional punting can indeed be a profitable and sustainable career.

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Professional Gamblers: Sidney Harris

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Professional Gamblers: Sidney Harris Sidney Harris is a notable figure in the world of professional gambling, known for his remarkable transition from the stock market to horse racing. His journey into the world of horses began in his mid-forties, following a successful career as a stock market trader. One of his most famous moments occurred on Black Monday, October 19, 1987.

While many financial advisors were paralyzed by the market crash, watching their fortunes evaporate on their screens, Sidney saw an opportunity. During a lunch break, he placed a bet predicting that the market would continue to fall amidst public panic. His bet paid off handsomely, netting him over £60,000 on that chaotic day. Sidney was among the few who could spot a profitable opportunity in the midst of adversity.

After retiring from the stock market, Sidney dedicated his life to horse racing. Over time, he built a network of valuable contacts within the industry. By the time he penned his book, Horse Racing: The Essential Guide to Backing Winners, Sidney had been a professional gambler for seven years. He recalled how his journey as a professional punter officially began on August 26, 1993, just one day after one of the world’s largest bookmakers decided to suspend his accounts, citing concerns that he was winning too much.

Sidney Harris’s approach to gambling is methodical and strategic, far removed from relying on luck alone. He believes that while each punter’s journey is unique, common mistakes and misguided beliefs can lead to repeated failures. According to Harris, having a well-defined strategy is crucial to recognizing and correcting errors. Developing a sound, common-sense approach is vital.

Fundamental Rules for Gambling: Sidney Harris’s Suggestions for Professional Gamblers:

Never back a horse unproven on the going.
Never back a horse from an out-of-form stable.
Never back a horse unsuited to a track.
Never back a horse ridden by a jockey with a poor track record.
Never back a horse whose trainer has a poor track record.

Bookmakers often promote horses that meet one or more of these conditions as “favorites,” but Sidney warns that these are usually losing bets. By filtering out horses that fall under these categories, punters can significantly narrow down the field, saving themselves time and money. Statistically, it is rare for a horse with such detrimental characteristics to win a race. Harris advises that your potential selections must pass these fundamental rules.

What to Look for When Picking a Horse:

Back trainers who are in form. You can check this in the “today’s trainers” section of the Racing Post or on their website.

Support trainers with a strong record at familiar tracks. The Racing Post’s Top Trainers section for a particular track will show which trainers are likely to be contenders.

Aim to back jockeys with a good track record. The Top Jockeys section provides insights into jockeys who consistently perform well at specific tracks.

Consider horses with multiple future entries. This indicates that a trainer is actively seeking the right race for the horse. Horses with multiple entries deserve extra attention, especially if they’ve been withdrawn from higher-grade races to compete in lower-grade ones.

When asked for advice to amateur or semi-professional punters, Sidney Harris emphasizes the financial dangers of horse racing. He warns that it is possible to lose everything, including your home, by betting on racehorses. The key to finding winners, he says, is awareness. Every decent-priced winner starts with a clue among hundreds of possible indicators. Once you identify these clues, you are on your way to uncovering profits.

In conclusion, Sidney Harris is a highly educated, self-made success in the world of professional gambling. By applying his business acumen to punting, he has turned it into a profitable venture. Following his guidelines could lead others to similar success.

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The Story of Simon Nott: A Professional Gambler’s Journey

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The Story of Simon Nott: A Professional Gambler's Journey Simon Nott is a name that resonates within the world of professional gambling, particularly in the realms of horse racing and greyhound racing. With a career spanning decades, Nott has carved out a reputation as a knowledgeable and passionate gambler, bookmaker, writer & You Tuber with his very popular Betting People which has interviewed the great and good of the professional gambler world. His story is one of dedication to the craft of betting, with a deep understanding of the betting markets and a love for the sport that goes beyond mere profit. Here’s a look at his journey and five key points of interest that define his career.

1. Early Beginnings and Passion for Betting:

Simon Nott’s journey into the world of professional gambling began with a deep-seated passion for horse racing. As a young man, he was drawn to the excitement of the racecourse, where the thrill of betting quickly became a lifelong pursuit. Unlike many who dabble in gambling, Nott took the time to study the intricacies of the sport, learning from experienced bettors and bookmakers. His early experiences laid the foundation for a career that would see him become one of the most respected figures in the industry.

2. Transition to Bookmaking:

One of the key turning points in Nott’s career was his transition from punter to bookmaker. He became an on-course bookmaker, a role that allowed him to immerse himself in the betting community and gain a deeper understanding of the odds-making process. This experience not only honed his skills but also gave him insights into the psychology of bettors. Nott’s time as a bookmaker helped him develop a balanced perspective on gambling, understanding both the risks and the rewards from both sides of the fence.

3. Writing and Media Contributions:

Simon Nott is not only known for his betting acumen but also for his contributions to the media as a writer and commentator. He has written extensively on the subject of gambling, with his articles appearing in various publications. Nott’s writing is marked by a combination of deep industry knowledge and a relatable, down-to-earth style. His work often provides insights into the life of a professional gambler, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of betting. Nott’s contributions have helped demystify the gambling industry for many and have earned him a loyal following among readers and bettors alike.

4. Focus on Greyhound Racing:

While Simon Nott is well-versed in horse racing, he is also a passionate advocate for greyhound racing. He has been involved in promoting the sport and has written extensively about it. Nott’s dedication to greyhound racing is evident in his efforts to raise awareness and appreciation for the sport, which often doesn’t receive the same attention as horse racing. His work in this area has highlighted the unique aspects of greyhound racing and has brought the sport to a broader audience.

5. Resilience and Adaptability:

One of the defining characteristics of Simon Nott’s career is his resilience and adaptability. The gambling industry is one that is constantly evolving, with changes in technology, regulation, and market dynamics. Nott has managed to stay relevant by adapting to these changes, whether it’s through embracing new betting platforms, adjusting his strategies, or sharing his insights with a new generation of bettors. His ability to evolve with the industry has been key to his longevity and success as a professional gambler.

Conclusion:

Simon Nott’s story is a testament to the dedication and passion required to succeed in the world of professional gambling. From his early days as a bettor to his roles as a bookmaker, writer, and advocate for greyhound racing, Nott has left an indelible mark on the industry. His journey is one of continuous learning, adaptability, and a genuine love for the sport, making him a respected figure in the gambling community.

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Steve Mellish: The Story of a TV Racing Pundit and Professional Gambler

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Steve Mellish: The Story of a TV Racing Pundit and Professional Gambler Steve Mellish is a well-known figure in the world of horse racing, particularly in the UK, where he has built a reputation as one of the most respected and knowledgeable TV racing pundits. Mellish’s deep understanding of horse racing, combined with his calm and analytical demeanor, has made him a trusted voice among racing enthusiasts. His journey to becoming a prominent figure on television is intertwined with his background as a professional gambler, a career that has both informed and enhanced his punditry.

Early Life and Introduction to Racing:

Steve Mellish’s passion for horse racing began at a young age. Growing up, he was captivated by the sport, spending countless hours studying form guides, watching races, and absorbing as much information as possible about the horses, trainers, and jockeys. This early obsession laid the foundation for his future career in racing, both as a gambler and as a pundit.

A Career as a Professional Gambler:

Mellish didn’t just watch horse racing; he lived it. Before becoming a familiar face on television, he made his living as a professional gambler. Unlike many who dabble in betting, Mellish approached gambling with a meticulous and disciplined mindset. His deep knowledge of the sport, combined with his ability to analyze race conditions, form, and other variables, allowed him to carve out a successful career as a professional punter.

Throughout his gambling career, Mellish developed a reputation for his sharp mind and keen eye for value. He wasn’t one to follow the crowd; instead, he relied on his own analysis to make informed bets. This approach not only earned him a living but also set him apart from many others in the industry. While specific details of his gambling career, such as notable wins or losses, remain somewhat private, it is clear that Mellish’s success as a professional gambler was significant enough to establish his credibility within the racing community.

Transition to TV Punditry:

Mellish’s transition from the betting ring to the TV studio was a natural progression. His deep understanding of horse racing and his ability to articulate his thoughts clearly made him an ideal candidate for television work. He began appearing on various racing programs, where his insights quickly gained a following.

As a pundit, Mellish is known for his no-nonsense approach. He doesn’t rely on flashy gimmicks or sensationalism; instead, he provides thoughtful, measured analysis based on his years of experience in the racing world. His background as a professional gambler gives him a unique perspective that resonates with viewers who appreciate his honesty and expertise.

Legacy and Impact:

Steve Mellish has become a trusted voice in the racing world, and his contributions to the sport go beyond his role as a pundit. He represents a link between the worlds of professional gambling and racing journalism, demonstrating that deep knowledge and a disciplined approach can lead to success in both arenas.

Mellish’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to horse racing. Whether as a gambler or a pundit, he has always approached the sport with the same level of seriousness and respect, earning him a place among the most respected figures in the industry. For racing enthusiasts, Steve Mellish is not just a pundit; he is a true student of the sport, whose insights continue to educate and inform.

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uk professional gamblers

Professional Gamblers Favourite Bets

Professional Gamblers: Clive Holt

Professional Gamblers: Sidney Harris

The Story of Simon Nott: A Professional Gambler’s Journey

Steve Mellish: The Story of a TV Racing Pundit and Professional Gambler

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