Last week the in-laws were looking after the kids so we decided to try a night out at the dogs. This is something I have not done for many years and it reminded me how much fun it can be. I don’t really bet much but I do like to have a punt at the races and so I thought I would share my insights on some myths when placing bets at greyhound tracks.
Greyhound racing is a thrilling sport with a rich history, attracting bettors who seek excitement and potential profits. However, over the years, several myths have emerged, leading to misconceptions that can misguide bettors.
In this blog, we debunk the most common greyhound betting myths and reveal the truths behind them, helping you make more informed betting decisions.
Myth 1: The Favourite Always Wins
Fact: While favourites often have strong chances, they do not always win.
Many bettors assume that the favourite is a guaranteed winner simply because the odds are lower. However, greyhound racing is highly unpredictable, with factors like track conditions, the dog’s starting position, and race pace influencing the outcome. Statistics show that favourites win only around 30-40% of races, meaning betting blindly on them is not a reliable long-term strategy.
Myth 2: Betting on the Fastest Dog Guarantees a Win
Fact: Speed is important, but other factors play a crucial role.
While past race times can provide insight into a greyhound’s potential, they do not guarantee success. Race conditions, trap draws, break speed (how quickly the dog starts), and competition level all contribute to the outcome. A greyhound with impressive past times may struggle if it gets crowded early in the race or fails to start well.
Myth 3: Inside Traps Are Always Better
Fact: The best trap position depends on the greyhound and track.
Some bettors believe that inside traps (Trap 1 and 2) are always advantageous because they provide a shorter distance around the bends. However, the best trap position varies by dog and track. Some greyhounds prefer running wide, while others excel from the middle. Additionally, different tracks favour different trap positions due to layout differences.
Myth 4: Heavy Favourites Are Fixed Races
Fact: Short-priced favourites are common due to strong performance, not race-fixing.
Some people suspect race-fixing when they see a greyhound with very low odds. However, bookmakers set odds based on a greyhound’s previous performances, trainer reputation, and betting activity. While upsets happen, short-priced favourites are usually well-deserved due to the dog’s superior form rather than any foul play.
Myth 5: Greyhounds Slow Down as They Age
Fact: Older greyhounds can still be competitive with proper conditioning.
While younger greyhounds often show more explosive speed, experienced racers can remain highly competitive. Trainers carefully manage their dogs’ schedules to maintain peak fitness. Some older greyhounds may perform well in certain race classes or distances where their experience and stamina give them an edge.
Myth 6: Weather Conditions Don’t Matter
Fact: Weather can significantly impact race results.
Many bettors overlook the importance of weather conditions. Wet or muddy tracks can slow some greyhounds down while benefiting others that are accustomed to running in such conditions. Wind direction and temperature can also affect race performance, making it crucial to consider the weather when placing bets.
Myth 7: Betting on All Dogs in a Race Guarantees Profit
Fact: Spreading bets across all runners is usually a losing strategy.
Some bettors think they can cover all bases by betting on every greyhound in a race. However, because bookmakers set odds to ensure profit margins, the returns from a winning bet will rarely cover the total stake spread across multiple selections. Instead, it’s better to identify value bets and focus on well-researched selections.
Myth 8: The Heavier the Dog, the Faster It Runs
Fact: Weight alone is not a reliable predictor of performance.
Some people believe that heavier greyhounds have an advantage due to increased power. However, racing success is determined by a combination of factors, including fitness, agility, stamina, and starting speed. Some lighter greyhounds may have a better burst of speed and superior cornering ability, making them just as competitive as their heavier counterparts.
Myth 9: Big Payouts Only Come from Long Shots
Fact: Value betting is the key to long-term profits, not just backing outsiders.
While long-shot bets can offer high payouts, they win far less frequently. Successful bettors focus on value betting, where they identify selections that have a better chance of winning than the odds suggest. Betting on solid mid-range contenders or using strategic bets like each-way or forecast bets can provide more consistent returns over time.
Myth 10: Watching One Race is Enough to Spot Trends
Fact: Consistent research and analysis are needed for successful betting.
Many bettors make the mistake of drawing conclusions from a single race. Greyhound racing is dynamic, and trends develop over multiple races. Factors like track bias, trainer form, and greyhound consistency should be monitored over a series of races rather than relying on a one-time observation.
Final Thoughts
Greyhound betting is an exciting and potentially profitable pursuit, but success requires knowledge and strategy. By debunking these common myths, you can approach betting with a clearer perspective, avoid costly mistakes, and improve your overall betting performance.
Remember, research, discipline, and a well-thought-out strategy will always outperform reliance on misconceptions and gambling myths.