You can't win 'em all. . .

I was invited to spend yesterday afternoon at Gulfstream Race Track.  It was a gorgeous day and those in the know told me that "the track was fast."  I believe that's a good thing.  My method of betting, however, apparently leaves much to be desired.  At least when it comes to picking a winner.

My choices tend to go thusly: In the second race there was a horse named Big Gus.  My friend Faith's son is named Gus so, of course, I bet on him.  Big Gus actually pulled it off, so I was literally off to the races.  Races 3 through 5 were not so beneficial. Don't ask why I chose my picks. . once I thought the jockey was cute, another time I swear the horse looked at me.  Race 6 was an obvious choice.  There was a horse named "Run Anna Run".  My grand-niece Ana Muniz Leen is a great runner these days.  And guess what!  Anna, the horse, ran like the wind and crossed the finish line first.  (She/he was also the favorite in the race, but that's beside the point.

The 8th race was the last race of the day for us.  I insisted on staying because a horse named "Joanie's Image" was running in that race.  So what if he/she (I think the horses are all male, even if they have female names) was posted at 40 to 1, then 50 to 1, and finally at 70 to 1.  Not very good odds, I was told, accompanied by a pitying look.  I didn't care.  I bet $2 on my namesake to Show.  Even I didn't expect this horse to win.  If you were expecting an upset, forgeddaboutit.  But he did come in 4th so I almost won.  Almost, apparently, doesn't quite make it at the track.

I don't think I have a big future as a gambler, or for that matter, as a picker of winners.  But it was a lovely way to spend a Saturday afternoon.  I recommend it.  Especially if someone else is doing the betting for you.
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