Handicapping on the Road
Two Men, 65 and 59, Bicycle 1,000 Kilometers to 13 Race Tracks to Save Discarded Thoroughbreds, Testing 7 Exciting Betting Methods Along the Way
By: Mark Cramer
About This Book
Mark Cramer has earned praise for both his horse racing and travel books. With Handicapping on the Road, he combines both realms. Last summer, Cramer, then 65 years old, set out on a 1,000-kilometer bicycle - race track journey through several regions of France, along with his companion, Alan, 59, a specialist in Asian art. The immediate goal was to raise money for the retirement of race horses, but Cramer was also using his handicapping methods, attempting to pay for the trip with his betting. Along the way, Mark and Alan would test their own stamina, sometimes in blistering heat. To make a point, they chose the same 21 days as the Tour de France (two old-timers "competing" with Tour professionals). Cramer also vowed to cover the more than 600 miles with zero carbon emissions (unless you count the carbon dioxide the cyclers breathed out heavily on strenuous hills). The Loire wines along the way served as performance dis-enhancing substances, adding to the challenge. Handicapping on the Road includes enough intriguing horse betting methods to satisfy Cramer's loyal fans, but the travel adventure, stamina test and ecological challenge make the story all the more fascinating.
AI Overview
Overview of "Handicapping on the Road" by Mark Cramer
Plot Summary: "Handicapping on the Road" by Mark Cramer is a unique blend of travelogue and handicapping guide. The book chronicles Cramer's 1,000-kilometer bicycle tour of French racetracks with fellow horseplayer Alan Kennedy. During this journey, they attempted to pay their expenses entirely through winning wagers, successfully achieving both their financial and charitable goals. The book not only documents their adventures but also provides readers with a variety of useful handicapping angles and insights.
Key Themes:
- Contrarian Handicapping: Cramer is known for his contrarian approach to handicapping, focusing on statistical analysis rather than traditional classical handicapping methods. He emphasizes the importance of identifying specific angles or situations that have proven profitable over time, often before entries are even drawn.
- Statistical Analysis: The book highlights Cramer's reliance on statistical handicapping, which he believes offers higher odds compared to classical analysis. He explains that by focusing on statistical factors, he can weed out subjective elements and identify more profitable betting opportunities.
- Philanthropy: A significant portion of the book's proceeds goes directly to the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF), raising awareness and funds for the welfare of retired Thoroughbred horses.
Critical Reception: The book has received positive reviews from both serious horseplayers and those interested in racing literature. Brian DiDonato in his review notes that "Handicapping on the Road" is an excellent read for both regular and occasional horseplayers, offering a mix of entertaining storytelling and practical handicapping insights. The blog post also highlights the noble cause behind the book, praising Cramer and Kennedy for their charitable efforts.
Overall, "Handicapping on the Road" is a unique and engaging read that combines travel, adventure, and expert handicapping advice, making it a valuable resource for anyone interested in horse racing and betting strategies.