What do the odds in the program reflect ?

Question

I am just wondering what the odds in the program represent. Is it the track handicappers guess as to what the odds of the horse winning the race are or is he/she making a guess at what the final odds will be after the public bets ?

Answer 1

They are an estimate. They can be determined in quite a few different ways.

For certain types of race they will be more likely to be accurate (for example a handicap where there is lots of form to go on).

In maidens (where most horses are inexperienced) they may look at the breeding or value of the horse, trainers stats etc

So although there may be a little guesswork, in theory they should be able to make a relatively accurate prediction, but there will always be exceptions to the rule and the lack of or large volume of actual wagers will always make a few horses starting prices completely different to the predicted one.

Answer 2

The morning lines odds are projected by the m'l setter.

They reflect what the betting public will bet as the favorite horse.

Answer 3

Remember its the limemaker's job to pick favorites not winners . . . .

Answer 4

It is the track handicapper at what odds the horse should be based on either breeding for 1st time maiden races or past performances in similar races.

Answer 5

MORNING LINE SET THE BUY THE RACE TRACK ANNOUCNER IN CERTAIN TRACKS ALSO AT ARLINGTON PARK THEY HAVE THEYRE OWN GUY WHO STUDIES THE RACES AND SETS MORNING LINES

Answer 6

One person's guess on what the odds will end before racing.