Unconventional Strategies: How Punters Exploit Betting Exchanges for Profit

Betting exchanges have revolutionized the gambling landscape, providing punters with a platform to not only wager on traditional outcomes but also to trade and exploit market movements. While many individuals engage in betting for the thrill of the game, there exists a subset of punters who leverage unconventional strategies on betting exchanges to make money. In this article, we'll explore some of the unusual ways punters employ to turn the odds in their favor.

Lay Betting for Guaranteed Profit:

One unconventional but widely practiced strategy is lay betting, where punters act as bookmakers by betting against a particular outcome. By doing so, they can lock in a profit regardless of the final result. This approach involves careful analysis of odds and market fluctuations to identify opportunities for profitable lays.

Arbitrage Opportunities:

Savvy punters keen on exploiting price differentials between different betting exchanges or bookmakers engage in arbitrage betting. By strategically placing bets on all possible outcomes of an event across multiple platforms, they aim to guarantee a profit, irrespective of the actual result.

Trading the Drift:

Some punters specialize in identifying horses or teams whose odds increase significantly closer to the event. These traders then place bets at higher odds, anticipating a market correction as the event approaches. If successful, they can cash out or lay at lower odds, securing a profit. Back-to-Lay Strategy:

Punters may adopt the back-to-lay strategy, wherein they initially back a selection at higher odds with the intention of laying it off at lower odds later in the event. This strategy relies on predicting market movements and is often employed in dynamic and fast-paced sports environments. Utilizing In-Play Fluctuations:

In-play betting provides a unique opportunity for punters to react to unfolding events during a match or race. Some traders specialize in identifying short-term market inefficiencies during live events, placing bets at favorable moments and capitalizing on price fluctuations. Manipulating Cash-Out Options:

Punters may strategically use the cash-out feature offered by betting exchanges to lock in profits or minimize losses before an event concludes. By monitoring the live market and adjusting their cash-out decisions, they aim to optimize returns based on evolving conditions.

Taking Advantage of Bonus Offers:

Some punters exploit promotional offers and bonuses provided by betting exchanges to boost their bankroll. By strategically navigating through sign-up bonuses, referral programs, and loyalty rewards, they accumulate additional funds for their betting activities.

Data Analysis and Algorithmic Trading:

With the rise of data analytics and machine learning, some punters employ algorithmic trading strategies. These individuals develop and deploy sophisticated algorithms to analyze market trends, odds movements, and historical data to make informed betting decisions.

Conclusion:

As the betting landscape continues to evolve, punters are finding increasingly creative and unconventional ways to exploit betting exchanges for profit. Whether through lay betting, arbitrage opportunities, in-play trading, or algorithmic strategies, these individuals demonstrate that success in the gambling world goes beyond luck. It involves a deep understanding of market dynamics, a keen eye for opportunities, and a willingness to explore innovative approaches in the pursuit of profit. However, it's important to note that while these strategies may yield profits for some, they also carry risks, and responsible gambling practices should always be emphasized.

Photo: J.Coote (2023) 

The Evolution of Bookmaking: Influence of Betting Exchanges on Market Formation and Profitability

The landscape of sports betting has undergone a significant transformation with the advent of betting exchanges. Traditionally, bookmakers were the sole architects of odds and market dynamics. However, the rise of betting exchanges has introduced a new paradigm, influencing how bookmakers form markets and seek profitability. In this article, we explore the symbiotic relationship between bookmakers and betting exchanges, shedding light on how bookmakers leverage these platforms to shape markets and secure their margins.

Betting Exchanges: A New Frontier

Betting exchanges, such as Betfair, Betdaq, and Smarkets, have disrupted the traditional bookmaking model by allowing individuals to both back and lay bets. This peer-to-peer system enables users to act as both bettors and bookmakers, creating a dynamic marketplace where odds are determined by the collective wisdom of the participants.

Influence on Odds Formation

Bookmakers closely monitor betting exchanges to gauge the pulse of the market. The real-time data generated by exchanges provides invaluable insights into the betting preferences of punters. Bookmakers use this information to adjust their own odds, ensuring that they remain competitive and attractive to bettors while also managing their exposure to potential losses.

Dynamic Market Adjustments

Betting exchanges introduce a level of dynamism to the market that bookmakers must navigate strategically. As money flows into specific outcomes on an exchange, bookmakers react by adjusting their odds to balance their books. If a particular horse or team becomes heavily backed on an exchange, bookmakers may shorten the odds to attract bets on other options and mitigate their potential liabilities.

Risk Mitigation and Hedging

One of the key ways bookmakers leverage betting exchanges is through risk mitigation and hedging strategies. When faced with a significant imbalance in betting on a particular outcome, bookmakers can use betting exchanges to lay off some of their risk by placing bets in the opposite direction. This practice allows bookmakers to spread their liabilities, ensuring that, regardless of the result, they maintain a profitable position.

In-Play Betting Dynamics

Betting exchanges have revolutionized in-play or live betting, allowing participants to place wagers during an event. Bookmakers use the constantly updating data from exchanges to adjust their in-play odds in real time. This responsiveness enables bookmakers to capitalize on shifts in momentum or unexpected developments during a match or race.

Collaboration and Data Integration

Some bookmakers have embraced a collaborative approach with betting exchanges, forming partnerships or integrating exchange data into their own platforms. This collaboration allows bookmakers to access a broader pool of information and enhance their market-making capabilities. By incorporating exchange data, bookmakers can refine their odds-setting processes and offer a more competitive and informed betting experience.

Challenges and Adaptations

While betting exchanges provide valuable insights and tools for bookmakers, they also present challenges. The increased transparency and competitiveness of the market demand that bookmakers continually adapt and refine their strategies. The rapid pace of information exchange requires bookmakers to make split-second decisions to stay ahead of market trends.

Conclusion

Betting exchanges have become integral to the modern bookmaking landscape, influencing how odds are formed, markets are shaped, and profits are secured. The symbiotic relationship between bookmakers and betting exchanges highlights the dynamic nature of the industry, where adaptability and strategic use of technology are essential for success. As the betting landscape continues to evolve, the interplay between bookmakers and betting exchanges will likely shape the future of sports wagering, creating a more sophisticated and responsive marketplace for avid bettors worldwide.

Photo: J. Coote (2023) 

Horse Racing: The Sport of Kings

Horse racing, often dubbed "the sport of kings," is a high-stakes, centuries-old tradition that combines the grace and power of horses with the excitement and anticipation of competitive sports,did you know you can play online baccarat CA instead of playing betting on horses . In this article, we'll explore the world of horse racing, from its rich history to the thrills of the track and the enduring appeal that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

The Rich History of Horse Racing 

Horse racing has an illustrious history that stretches back thousands of years. Its origins can be traced to ancient civilizations, with chariot races in Greece and horseback competitions in Rome. In the 17th century, organized horse racing as we know it today gained popularity in England, laying the groundwork for modern horse racing traditions.

Types of Horse Racing

Horse racing comes in several formats, but the two primary types are flat racing and jump racing (often called National Hunt racing). Flat racing takes place on level tracks and focuses on speed, while jump racing features obstacles like hurdles and fences, emphasizing both speed and jumping ability.

The Thrills of the Track

Horse racing is celebrated for its sheer excitement. The sound of hooves thundering down the track, the strategic jockeying for position, and the suspense as the horses approach the finish line make it a thrilling spectator sport. The adrenaline of a close race and the nail-biting finishes are what keep fans coming back for more.

Iconic Races and Events

Horse racing boasts a roster of iconic events that capture global attention. The Kentucky Derby, the Grand National, the Melbourne Cup, and the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe are just a few examples. These races are steeped in tradition and feature the world's finest thoroughbreds and jockeys.

The Role of Jockeys

Jockeys are the unsung heroes of horse racing. These skilled athletes ride the horses, guiding them to victory with finesse and strategy. Weight plays a crucial role, with jockeys maintaining strict weight limits to ensure fair competition.

The Betting Aspect

Horse racing is closely associated with betting. Whether at the track or through online platforms, fans can wager on their favourite horses at https://www.sagamblingsites.co.za/real-money-casinos/ . Betting adds an extra layer of excitement to the sport, and it's a vital part of the horse racing industry..... 

Horse Welfare and Safety

The welfare and safety of horses have become central concerns in the world of horse racing. Efforts are underway to enhance track surfaces, improve medical care for horses, and ensure fair treatment and ethical handling.

The Global Appeal

Horse racing's popularity extends beyond borders. It's a beloved sport in countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and many others. Its international reach is exemplified by events like the Dubai World Cup, which attract competitors and spectators from all corners of the globe.

Conclusion

Horse racing is more than a sport; it's a timeless tradition, a thrilling spectacle, and a showcase of equine excellence. Its rich history, iconic races, and passionate fan base ensure that horse racing remains an enduring source of excitement and entertainment. Whether you're an avid fan or a curious observer, the world of horse racing offers a unique and captivating experience that continues to stand the test of time.

Photo: Pixabay (free)

Unraveling the Roulette Betting Systems: Strategies, Myths, and Reality

Introduction

Roulette, a classic casino game of chance, has captured the hearts of gamblers for centuries. With its elegant wheel and enticing promise of big wins, it's no wonder players have sought various strategies and betting systems to tip the odds in their favor. In this article, we delve into the world of roulette betting systems, exploring the most popular strategies, their underlying principles, and their effectiveness.

The Allure of Betting Systems

Roulette betting systems are methodologies that gamblers use to manage their bets, hoping to improve their chances of winning over the long run. These systems often rely on patterns, probabilities, and mathematical formulas to guide players' bets, offering a sense of control in a game dominated by randomness. 

The Martingale System

One of the most famous betting systems, the Martingale, is built on the premise of doubling your bet after each loss. The idea is that a win will eventually occur, recouping all previous losses and generating a profit equal to the initial bet. While this system sounds promising, it's not foolproof. The risk lies in encountering a series of losses, leading to exponential bets that could exhaust your bankroll.

The Fibonacci System

Based on the Fibonacci sequence, this system involves betting the sum of the last two bets after a loss. The sequence goes 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, and so on. While it's a less aggressive approach compared to the Martingale, the inherent flaw is that a series of losses can still lead to substantial bets.

The Labouchere System

Also known as the cancellation system, players using this strategy create a sequence of numbers, often randomly. Each bet comprises the sum of the first and last numbers in the sequence. Upon a win, these outer numbers are canceled. This method can offer more control than the previous two systems, but its effectiveness is still reliant on luck.

The D'Alembert System

Here, players increase their bet by one unit after a loss and decrease it by one unit after a win. The system is designed to capitalize on balance, but it doesn't ensure consistent profits, as it doesn't counteract the inherent house edge.

The Reality Check

Despite their allure, no betting system can guarantee long-term success in roulette. The core reason lies in the game's design—each spin of the wheel is independent of previous spins, making past outcomes irrelevant to predicting future ones. The concept of the "Gambler's Fallacy," which assumes that past outcomes influence future ones, is a misleading belief.

Furthermore, casinos have implemented table limits precisely to counter the effectiveness of these betting systems. They ensure that players can't infinitely double their bets, effectively limiting the potential of the Martingale and similar strategies.

The Role of House Edge

The house edge, inherent in all casino games, including roulette, ensures that over time, the casino will always have a statistical advantage. In European roulette, which features a single zero, the house edge is about 2.7%. In American roulette, with both single and double zeros, the edge increases to around 5.26%. Betting systems don't alter this fundamental mathematical reality.

Conclusion

Roulette betting systems add an extra layer of excitement to the game, promising a strategic approach to chance. While they might provide short-term wins and entertainment, it's crucial to understand their limitations. The systems can't change the game's fundamental odds, and the reliance on past outcomes is a fallacy.

If you choose to use a betting system while playing roulette, it's advisable to do so for fun and with a strict budget in mind. Remember that gambling should always be seen as a form of entertainment, not a reliable source of income. Understanding the realities of betting systems and the underlying principles of roulette can enhance your enjoyment of the game while keeping your expectations realistic.

Photo: Pixabay (free) 

Hold Your Horses

It's a common phrase but do you know the meaning?

The phrase is historically related to horse riding, or driving a horse-drawn vehicle. A number of explanations, all unverified, have been offered for the origins of the phrase, dating back to usage in Ancient Greece.

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Cynthia Jay Wins $34 Million

January 26th, 2000. It was a very lucky day for cocktail waitress Cynthia Jay. The 37-year-old hit the second largest Megabucks win in history. However, her life took a disastrous turn when just six weeks later she was left paralysed in a car accident which sadly saw her sister lose her life. 

Living For The Day

It's a phrase many live by. That's certainly what 76-year-old retired flight attendant from Vegas who only intended to bet $100 but went to $300. However, those extra dollars did wonders for her bank balance when she won $27 million.  

The Biggest Loser

Far from the biggest loser in financial term but a man many people would love to see lose his shirt rather than his ill-fated workers. Most of the world have heard about Robert Maxwell with his infamous use of workers' pensions. Easy come easy go for the late Maxwell when we went to a casino in Mayfair, London and lost £1.5 million in a matter of minutes when a few spins on the roulette table went wrong. 

Photo: Pixabay free for commercial use and no attribution 

Unleash Your Inner Fashionista: A Winning Guide to Ladies Day at the Races

Introduction: 

Ladies Day at the races is a prestigious event where style, sophistication, and elegance take center stage. It's an opportunity for women to showcase their fashion prowess and turn heads with their impeccable ensembles. Winning Ladies Day goes beyond luck; it's about crafting an outfit that exudes confidence and class. In this guide, we'll explore the fashion pointers that can make you a winner on this glamorous occasion, along with highlighting some of the biggest and best prizes on offer.

The Fashion Pointers: 

 Embrace the Dress Code: Each racecourse may have its specific dress code, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the guidelines beforehand. Whether it's a formal or semi-formal dress code, adhere to the rules while still adding your personal touch.

Elegant Headwear: Ladies Day calls for the crowning glory of a magnificent hat or fascinator. Opt for headwear that complements your outfit, enhances your features, and adds a touch of drama. Experiment with different shapes, sizes, and colors to find the perfect match.

Dress to Impress: Choose a dress that flatters your body shape and accentuates your best features. Opt for sophisticated cuts and fabrics, such as lace, silk, or chiffon, for a timeless and elegant look. Embrace bold colors, floral patterns, or classic monochrome designs, depending on your personal style.

Attention to Detail: It's the little things that count. Pay attention to your accessories, as they can make or break your outfit. Opt for statement jewelry, such as a chunky necklace or oversized earrings, to add a touch of glamour. Coordinate your handbag and shoes, ensuring they complement your dress seamlessly.

Shoes: Comfort is key when it comes to footwear. Choose stylish yet practical shoes that will keep you comfortable throughout the day. Heels are a popular choice, but make sure you can walk confidently in them. If heels aren't your cup of tea, consider elegant flats or wedges as a chic alternative.

Confidence is Queen: The most important accessory you can wear is confidence. Stand tall, embrace your unique style, and radiate self-assurance. A winning outfit is only complete when paired with a positive attitude and a dazzling smile.

The Biggest and Best Prizes: Best Dressed: Many racecourses host a "Best Dressed" competition on Ladies Day, offering fabulous prizes for the most stylish attendees. Winners often receive luxury experiences, designer goods, or even international trips. Enter the competition and seize the opportunity to showcase your impeccable fashion sense.

Style Awards: Numerous fashion brands and magazines collaborate with racecourses to host style awards during Ladies Day events. These awards recognize the most fashionable individuals, rewarding them with generous cash prizes, luxury fashion items, and exclusive brand collaborations.

Access to Exclusive Lounges: Winning Ladies Day may grant you access to exclusive lounges and VIP areas, where you can enjoy the races in utmost luxury. These areas often offer complimentary drinks, gourmet dining, and opportunities to mingle with celebrities and influential personalities.

Spa Treatments and Pampering: Some racecourses partner with renowned spas and wellness centers to provide winners with luxurious treatments and pampering sessions. This includes massages, facials, beauty makeovers, and much more. It's the perfect reward for your sartorial triumph.

Vouchers and Shopping Sprees: Various high-end fashion retailers sponsor Ladies Day events and offer generous shopping vouchers or shopping sprees to the lucky winners. Take advantage of this opportunity to upgrade your wardrobe with the latest designer pieces.

Conclusion: Winning Ladies Day at the races goes beyond luck; it's about crafting a head-turning look that captures the judges' eye.

Photo: Pixabay (free) 

Heading To Great Yarmouth Races

There never seems enough time with work, rest and little play. However, that will be changing later this month when a few of us venture to Great Yarmouth for a day at the races. 

It's a superb location being on the Norfolk coast. Plenty of hotels, historic pier, fun fair, greyhound racing & racecourse - even a couple of casinos for those who love the spin of the roulette wheel. Talking of casinos, take a look at this bgo bonus and promo code. I've always enjoyed a little bit of flutter and a win is even sweeter than the rock on sale down Regent Street.  

One thing to note, Yarmouth is a favourites course. In fact, so many jollies win at this track you need to take note of the horse at the head of the betting. Since the straight mile has been upgraded the quality of horse has risen quite significantly. Well, definitely larger fields. To be fair, this venue always had a reputation for quality thoroughbreds. Hardly surprising when the likes of Sir Henry Cecil frequented the course in the good, old days. A true gentleman, who took the time to chat with everyday racegoers who remember and cherish his words. 

These days, a new breed of trainer walk the turf. Remember the late Michael Jarvis? His once assistant trainer, Roger Varian, is now a leading light and I keep my eyes open for his two-year-old debutantes. Few of his better juveniles win at big odds but a winner is a winner.  

Taking a look at Varian's better juveniles, I've got a couple worthy of your time. Whether they will appear at Yarmouth is another thing but here goes. 

Farnham 

This bay filly is a daughter of Farrh out of an Irish-bred dam called Purple Tiger - who never raced. However, Farham is no slouch which a 110,000 Guinea sales tag details. This May foal is owned by Clipper Logistics who are no stranger to good horses. They had done well with Soldier's Call, a two-year-old trained by Archie Watson. In addition, to a decent pedigree, Farnham has been given a Lowther Stakes (Group 2) entry. This is one of two entrants for the trainer. The other horse Yourtimeisnow ran a cracking race on debut at Newmarket when third, beaten less than one length. This indicates the judgement of Varian and why you may be wise to put Farnham in your mythical notebook. 

Here to a lovely day at Yarmouth races.

Photo: Jason Coote

Why Do Bookmakers Close Or Limit Gambler's Accounts?

Bookmakers are in the business of making money, and they do so by setting odds that favor their profitability. However, when certain players start to win consistently, it can create a problem for bookmakers. To manage their risks, bookmakers may choose to close the accounts or limit the bets of winning players. In this article, we will explore the reasons why bookmakers close gambler's accounts or limit their bets.

One reason bookmakers close accounts is to prevent arbitrage betting, which involves betting on all possible outcomes of a game or event to guarantee a profit. This strategy is popular among professional bettors who use complex algorithms to identify and exploit small discrepancies in the odds offered by different bookmakers. When a bookmaker detects a player engaging in arbitrage betting, they may choose to close their account to prevent any further losses.

Another reason bookmakers may close accounts is to prevent bonus abuse. Many bookmakers offer sign-up bonuses and other promotions to entice new players to their platform. However, some players take advantage of these promotions by creating multiple accounts or using fraudulent methods to claim bonuses. When bookmakers detect such behavior, they may close the accounts of these players and cancel any bonus winnings.

Bookmakers may also limit the bets of successful players to manage their risk. When a player wins consistently, bookmakers may start to lose money on their bets. To reduce their exposure, bookmakers may choose to limit the amount a player can bet on a particular game or event. This allows them to continue to accept bets from the player, but at a reduced risk.

Another reason bookmakers may limit bets is to prevent insider betting, which involves using confidential information to gain an advantage over other players. This is often seen in sports betting, where players or coaches may have access to information about the team's performance, injuries, or other factors that can affect the outcome of a game. When bookmakers suspect insider betting, they may choose to limit the bets of the player or close their account to prevent any further losses.

Bookmakers may also close accounts or limit bets of players who engage in suspicious or fraudulent behavior. This includes activities such as match-fixing or using illegal betting software. When bookmakers detect such behavior, they may report it to the authorities and close the player's account to prevent any further illegal activity.

In conclusion, bookmakers close accounts or limit bets of players for a variety of reasons. These include preventing arbitrage betting, bonus abuse, insider betting, and suspicious or fraudulent behavior. While these actions may seem unfair to the affected players, bookmakers are in the business of making a profit and must manage their risks to remain successful. Players should be aware of the risks involved in gambling and adhere to the rules and regulations set by bookmakers to avoid having their accounts closed or bets limited.

When Lady Luck Catches Your Eye

An interesting topic of conversation. 

You know why people have a fascination with gambling? 

Because they think it's easy money. 

I can tell you now if you honestly think you are going to win at gambling by sheer, blind luck then you are correct, it can happen. 

People looking at websites such as Online Casino Deutschland for all the latest free bets, spins and bonuses. They are like the majority of gamblers hoping they will hit the jackpot. 

We've all seen people winning the lottery. Sure, there is some lucky bloke round the corner from your old grans who needed a larger cheque because they couldn't fit all those zeros. 

The old dear who walked into Tesco's and got a scratch card and won a million as she was tucking into a pie. 

Have you ever seen lady luck? Do you know what she looks like, what she wears or her favourite perfume? 

I have this image in mind. She has the style of Coco Channel, her perfume comes from one of those giant bottles you only see in boutique stores. Perfect hair with a flash of purple in the front (pictured, Lady Luck at Great Yarmouth Casino). Without question, she is a beautiful lady. If she brushes past you while buying a scratch card from W H Smiths you will notice that look, touch and sweet, heavenly smell. She is fleeting like willow the wisp, often brushing past one to favour another with a smile on her face. She turns those waiting in line to green-eyed monsters while those she touches feel like a million dollars even if they only get three bells come up on the fruit machine. 

While she is in your presence she is a queen. As she walks past with her head held high, she's a bitch. 

Lady luck will visit everyone at some point in their life. She is only surpassed by skill or knowledge but even then she may make someone a fortune without a moment's thought.

The next time you are about to place a bet, buy a scratch card or play at the casino, stop for a moment, look around and see if she is waiting in the wings. If she comes closer, place a bet because this may be your lucky day. 

She is waiting for you...

Photo: Pixabay free for commercial use and no attribution but given

What's the Strangest Bet in History?

Love to bet? 

In this modern age of gambling, almost half of the population love to chance their luck. Whether it's horse racing, football, tennis, a night at the casino or you can't keep away from those online slots. There's one thing you can guarantee - you're not alone!

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I guess, the majority of punters bet on pretty normal stuff. You may find the odd person who specialises in something unusual, exotic or plain wild. They may keep it quiet almost embarrassed by their preoccupation. Let's face it, come 25th December, someone will be looking out of the window to see if it's a white Christmas. Get in! 10/1 winner with a few snowflakes falling from the heavens.

There must have been some very strange bets placed over the years. A population of billions of people on planet Earth. There must have been a number of very, very, very strange bets. 

Searching the internet we found a couple of bets that you may consider very strange if not a little humorous.

A Tattoo Too Far

We can't be sure this particular character won a bet for the most absurd tattoos but he was infamous for all the wrong reasons. This bloke's branding may not have come to our attention but for being arrested. The mugshot showed a man in his early twenties and inked on his forehead were the words: PSYCHO. On one cheek he had a tear and the other a heart. What are the odds of seeing some like that down your street? 

Clever Bet for a Big Guy

Betting isn't always about the fittest, strongest, best athletes. Surely the big, rotund bloke has no chance of winning a race against a young whippersnapper? As we know, the wise man builds his house upon the rocks. Which tells us something very important when gambling. 

The wise, intelligent and cunny often take the spoils. 

The story originated back in 18th century England when local butcher Mr Bullock challenged the Lord of Barrymore to a race. Mr Bullock was a big, big man. In this day and age, he would be considered morbidly obese. He liked his food and enjoyed pies. He was unfit, slow, and looked to have little hope of winning. 

The Earl of Barrymore was fit, ready and eager. He was an athlete. How could he possibly lose? 

Such was his confidence that he placed a huge bet on himself. He was a short-priced favourite. 

To make the challenge fair, Bullock asked for two conditions:

• A 35-metre head start
• He chose the course 

The Earl was so sure he would win, he accepted. No conditions could stop him winning. 

Mr Bullock, the canny soul, chose the race to be held in London with very narrow streets. With his 35-metre lead, his ample size blocked the Earl's path and there was no way he could pass the burly butcher who tormented his opponent by chomping on one of his pork pies as he crossed the winning line. 

Be careful not to gamble with a fat man with a pie. 

Photo: Pixabay free for commercial use and no attribution but given 

**KNOW THE BEST HORSES IN TRAINING (BEFORE THEY RACE!)**