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Award-winning golf has become a centerpiece of the Island Resort & Casino, home to both Sweetgrass and Sage Run Golf Clubs. Sweetgrass, consistently ranked among Golfweek’s Best Courses, features an open layout with some of the game’s most fun greens to putt. The course proudly hosts The Island Resort Championship at Sweetgrass, part of the Epson Tour - “Road to the LPGA” and the future of women’s golf.
Sage Run Golf Club provides a different kind of golf experience with holes flowing through hardwoods and around a ridge, providing a thrill ride for golfers of all abilities.
The Spring is one of my favorite times of the year. With warmer weather upon us, we can start thinking about all the great outdoor activities to enjoy ranging from great golf and gambling excursions to beach getaways and other fun in the sun.
Another reason I love this time of year is the traditions like no other with the Masters golf tournament in April, followed closely by the Kentucky Derby in May. When the birds start chirping and the azaleas are in full bloom, you know great things lie ahead. In Kentucky, and other horseracing hot spots around the country, the tradition of thoroughbred racing, especially the Triple Crown, is really something special. Whether it is enjoying the signature drinks at the racetracks, hosting a party to celebrate the races, or attending the track for the day of races, each Triple Crown race offers a great opportunity to spend time with friends and hopefully cash some winning tickets. In this issue, on page 14, we are excited to highlight some fun facts about past Triple Crown Champions and some background and insight into each. There have only been thirteen elite thoroughbreds to accomplish the feat in 150 years, so to honor their greatness is always appropriate. Will we see one this year? Only time will tell but you can rest assured that we will be pulling for it to happen again!
Also in this issue, we highlight some of our favorite casino golf courses and gambling getaways. There is nothing better than getting a group of friends together and going on a golf trip. When you fold in the fun and excitement of a casino, well, the sky is the limit on having a great time. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned golfer, the courses we highlight on page 7 will surely meet and exceed your expectations. We also highlight one of the best cruise lines in the world with Celebrity Cruises. If you are looking for a unique trip to travel the world, enjoy luxurious amenities while mixing in some gambling as well, look no further than Celebrity and be sure to let them know you read about them in Gaming and Destinations
We hope you enjoy the other great articles and gambling strategies in this issue as much as we like publishing them for you. When it comes to providing the best places to play and stay for your gambling excursions and providing some insight to make your outings more profitable, we are your sure bet. If you are not a current subscriber, check out GamingandDestinations.com or call us at 1-502-212-5177 to subscribe today for just $20 per year. You will get six-issues mailed straight to your mailbox as well as great offers and invitations from our casino partners throughout the year. Thanks again for your support and as always if you can’t be good…be lucky!
Gaming Media Group Incorporated
PUBLISHER
G. Douglas Dreisbach President & Publisher
Gaming Media Group Inc.
Gaming Media Group Incorporate d
PRESIDENT
G. Douglas Dreisbach
FOUNDING PUBLISHER
Larry Bisig
LAYOUT AND DESIGN
Hill Harcourt
GAMING AND DESTINATIONS
136 St. Matthews Ave. #300 Louisville, KY 40207
(502) 212-5177
e-mail: editor@gaminganddestinations.com
The goal of this publication is to help drive awareness of the ever-growing popularity of the gaming industry and to assist gamers in enjoying their gaming experience to the fullest.
Gaming and Destinations is published for those who seek the best in gaming and in life, and is produced bimonthly by Gaming Media Group Inc. of Louisville, Kentucky. Copyright 2023 by Gaming Media Group Inc. All Rights Reserved. This publication is printed by LSC Communications., Inc. of Shepherdsville, Kentucky. Postage is paid in Lebanon Junction, Kentucky.
Opinions of columnists are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor does Gaming and Destinations assume liability for claims of advertisers.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Gaming and Destinations, 136 St. Matthews Ave. #300 Louisville, KY 40207
ON THE COVER: Check out our top picks for great casino golf courses and other gambling getaways.
6 Golf & Gambling Getaways:
Check out some of our favorite places to stay, play and gamble around the region.
HIGHLIGHTS & HOT SPOTS
4 Casino Scene: Hot Happenings at Our Preferred Properties
Get the scoop on what’s happening at our preferred properties around the region.
12 Sail the Seas: Celebrity Cruises Offers the Ultimate
When it comes to the Ultimate Gambling Getaway, look no further than a cruise with Celebrity!
14 Triple Crown Trivia: Fun Facts About Horse Racing’s Elite
Winning the Triple Crown of Horseracing is the ultimate dream of every horseman. Here are some facts of past Triple Crown champions.
18 Horseracing
When it comes ot finding the winning horse, don’t miss this insightful indicator.
Learn the various ways to wager on America’s national pastime.
Learn when to play this power move to get the advantage in blackjack.
Moneylines and Halftime Spreads
(Coastal Mississippi) As the website says, “When you visit The Secret Coast, you will be met with warm welcomes and 62 miles of shoreline dotted by unique coastal communities.” This is a perfect description of the Southern destination loaded with casinos, great golf, restaurants and more. Get more information about the area and other events and entertainment at GulfCoast.org.
(D’Iberville, MS – Gulf Coast) Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort – If you are looking for a premier Gulf Coast resort with stunning views, decadent dining and great gaming, look no further than Scarlet Pearl. Regular casino promotions include $20 free slot play for new members, Tuesdays and Wednesdays swipe your card after earning 150 points for various prizes including slot play and comp dollars and Friday and Saturday offers more swipe and win opportunities after 100 points are earned. For more information, call 1-888-752-9772 or visit ScarletPearlCasino.com.
(Vicksburg, MS) Ameristar Casino Hotel - Ameristar is committed to creating a magical experience for every guest, and that goes for their room rates too. In addition to AARP, AAA and other discounts, the property also honors a “Best Rate Guarantee” that ensures you will get the best possible rate when you book your room and if happen to find a lower rate within 24 hours of making your reservation, they will happily match the rate. Plus, don’t miss great live music weekly in the Bottleneck Blues Bar with a seating capacity of 300 and regularly hosts great rock, blues, country and bands. For reservations and more information, call 1-601630-3786 visit AmeristarVicksburg.com.
(Tunica, MS) Hollywood Casino Tunica – Get a taste of the glitz and glamor of the stars at Hollywood Casino Tunica. After checking out the amazing collection of memorabilia around the property, guests can enjoy the award-winning Fairbanks Steakhouse for one of the best dining experiences in the region and then stay in a 5-story tower overlooking the casino floor or the 8-story tower next to the largest indoor pool in Tunica. When it’s time for casino action, Hollywood Tunica has you covered with over 1,000 slots, almost twenty table games and a sportsbook to get in on the action for the biggest games. For more information, call 1-800871-0711 or visit HollywoodCasinoTunica.com.
(Philadelphia, MS) Pearl River Resort: Silver Star & Golden Moon Hotels & Casinos – Located just over an hour from Jackson, Mississippi, is a casino resort that will give you all you want, and more! Pearl River boasts two of the premier gaming experiences in the South with Silver Star and Golden Moon. Together they offer ten dining options, a spa, pools, a water park and of course, great gaming action. The resort is also home to two of the best golf courses in the country, with The Oaks and The Azaleas located at the Dancing Rabbit Golf Club. The property is regularly bringing in top entertainment as well, including Sawyer Brown (May 27) and Jeff Foxworthy (June 3) so keep an eye out on the website for announcements. For more information, call 1-866-447-3275 or visit PearlRiverResort.com.
(West Memphis, AR) Southland Casino Hotel – Boasting the newest hotel in the South, Southland is the place to be when you are ready to play, and stay, in luxury. From the enormous gaming floor to the eight dining options ranging from the elegant Ignite Steakhouse to the ultimate buffet experience at The Kitchens, you can’t go wrong with a visit to Southland. Also be sure to check out the live entertainment at the Charred Oak Bourbon Bar where you can sip the finest spirits and wines while taking in some tunes. For more information call 1-800-467-6182 or visit SouthlandCasino.com.
(Marksville, LA) Paragon Casino Resort and Hotel – When it comes to a full resort experience, look no further than Paragon Casino Resort and Hotel in Louisiana. Boasting over 500 rooms, three swimming pools, a luxurious spa, nine dining outlets including the award-winning Legend’s Steakhouse, and a championship golf course with Tamahka Trails that regularly wins best casino golf course in Southern Gaming’s Readers’ Choice Awards. The casino offers Vegas-style gaming action including a full-sportsbook, live poker room and all the slots, video poker machines and table games you could want. Don’t miss the action at Paragon! For more information, call 1-800-946-1946 or visit ParagonCasinoResort.com.
(Mount Pleasant, MI) Soaring Eagle Casino Resort – Soaring Eagle Casino Resort is the ultimate place to have a winning time; and with good reason, as it is home to Michigan’s largest gaming floor! Whether you love playing for triple sevens or putting on a mean poker face, you can really win big with one of the state’s largest collections of slot machines and table games Plus, don’t miss headliner entertainment with Chicago (May 5), Godsmack (May 26), Jelly Roll, Willie Nelson & Family (May 27), Brooks & Dunn (June 15) and Jame Taylor (Jume 23). For information, and reservations, call 1-877-232-4532 or visit SoaringEagleCasino.com.
(Bowler, WI) North Star Mohican Casino Resort – As if you ever needed a reason for a gambling getaway, North Star certainly has plenty of them to ensure your stay is great from the second you step in the lobby. Guests enjoy great gambling with over 1,200 machines, plenty of table games including blackjack, Three Card Poker, Let it Ride, Craps and more. Also, book a room in their luxurious contemporary hotel or the 57-site RV Park with 2030-and 50-amp service, pull thru sites, picnic table area and pet friendly. Also check out top entertainment and events at North Star including Bohemian Queen (May 6), Smokey Robinson (June 3) and Three Dog Night (July 14). For more information and reservations, call 1-800-952-0195 or visit NorthStarCasinoResort.com.
(Harris, MI) Island Resort & Casino – Whether you are looking for golf, gaming, dining or relaxing in the saltwater pool or spa, Island Resort has you covered. Boasting over 400 luxurious hotel rooms, you will find a great place to stay, and the on-property amenities seem endless. As the weather warms up, be sure to check out the award-winning golf courses with Sweetgrass Golf Club and Sage Run Golf Club. Both are always in great shape and will challenge the most skilled golfers from the tips and can be accommodating for more casual players from shorter tee boxes. For more information and reservations, call 1-877-475-7469 or visit IslandResortandCasino.com.
Celebrity Cruises - Discover the first and only Relaxed LuxurySM resorts at sea to the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska and more with Celebrity Cruises. Offering ports of departure across a variety of destinations, cruisers should be able to find a convenient destination to start your vacation. There are always special offers and packages to take advantage of at CelebrityCruises.com. Check it out and start your luxury vacation today!
Come for the games, stay for everything else when you visit Paragon Casino Resort! Win it big at Louisiana’s only casino with both Vegas-style and bingostyle slots. Enjoy 18 holes on our beautiful golf course, sip cocktails by the pool and enjoy classic Southern cuisine at any of our fine restaurants. After the party, unwind in one of our newly renovated hotel suites or stay just steps away from the action at our top-rated RV Resort. Get away to Louisiana’s finest and make your reservation today at ParagonCasinoResort.com.
When it comes to great gambling getaways, there are plenty to choose from. Whether you are looking to stay local, within a couple hour drive or hopping on a plane and heading to a remote destination, taking advantage of some of the outdoor amenities is a great way to elevate the value and excitement on your trip. We are partial to properties with great golf courses as it is always fun to sneak in a round or two in the daytime, and then settle in with an extravagant dinner and gambling at night.
Casino golf courses are among some of the finest in the country and are traditionally very well-maintained and manicured providing an extra attraction for high rollers and group outings. Golf and gambling go together like peanut butter and jelly
and there are few finer pairings than birdies and blackjacks at your favorite casino resort.
We have pulled together a few of our favorite courses for you to consider on your next gambling and golf getaway ranging from courses in the South to the Midwest. We hope you enjoy these layouts as much as we did.
DANCING RABBIT GOLF CLUB: AZALEAS AND OAKS COURSES AT PEARL RIVER RESORT
(PHILADELPHIA, MISSISSIPPI)
1-601-663-0011 |
DancingRabbitGolf.com
Head Pro: Sean Racki
AZALEAS COURSE:
Yards from the tips: 7,157
Rating: 74.4 Slope: 135
OAKS COURSE:
Yards from the tips: 7,076
Rating: 74.6 Slope: 139
Cost to play: $70 - $150
(Stay & Play packages available)
Course Overview: Described as “The Augusta you can play”, the Dancing Rabbit Golf Club at Pearl River Resort is a favorite destination for gamblers and golfers alike offering guests the ultimate Southern hospitality. The Mississippi Band of Choctaws can take pride with their beautiful and scenic Dancing Rabbit Golf Club boasting two championship courses, The Oaks and The Azaleas, that both resemble Augusta National-like conditions and difficulty. Located in east central Mississippi just an hour north of Jackson, the two courses are hidden among towering pines and
stunning oaks without the hindrance of houses or buildings around the course. The best time of year to play it is the first week of April, when the Azaleas are in full bloom, and there are approximately 2,500 on the course, so it is absolutely spectacular to experience it.
The award-winning, par 72 courses present players with nearly 14,200 yards of soul-stirring golf and each of the club’s 36 holes bears its own distinct personality, yet they retain the character and grandeur of the Southern woodlands from which they are carved.
The Azaleas boast immaculately manicured 419 Bermuda fairways and TifEagle greens and The Oaks offers Champion Bermuda greens and Zoysia fairways. This classic combination provides a truly exceptional experience for golf enthusiasts around the country.
facilities in the Gulf State region. Serving as part of the Audobon Golf Trail, the course is always in superb playing conditions and welcoming to golfers of all skill levels. The 18hole championship golf course is located on a beautiful tract of rolling terrain with century-old oak trees and meandering creeks. With six sets of tees, the course is fun yet challenging and the entertaining layout combined with perfectly manicured course conditions and uncompromising customer service creates one of the finest resort golf experiences in the South.
Hosting three U.S. qualifiers, advanced players can get all they want from the back tees, and higher handicaps can still enjoy the round with the further forward ones. There are numerous and massive bunkers throughout the course making your tee to green strategy important.
CASINO RESORT (GRESHAM, WI)
1-715-787-3778 | PineHillsGolf.net
Yards from the Tips: 6,465
Rating: 70 Slope: 126
Cost to play: $40 to $50
TAMAHKA TRAILS GOLF COURSE
AT PARAGON CASINO RESORT
(MARKSVILLE, LOUISIANA)
1-800-946-1946 x6300 |
ParagonCasinoResort.com
Head Pro: Kevin Michael
Yards from the tips: 7,152
Rating: 74.7 Slope: 135
Cost to Play: $49 - $59
Course Overview: Tamahka Trails is one of the most prominent golf
Tamahka Trails boasts everything you’d expect from a top-notch golf club and there are several unique characteristics of the course including the rolling terrain, which is very unique to central Louisiana delta land. They also offer unlimited daily golf with every paid green fee, and one of the best parts of finishing a round, the Iced mango towels when in season are both exhilarating and refreshing. The best time to play is mid to late October when the heat of the summer months is typically gone and the dryer course conditions are nice and the golf course is in perfect shape.
Course Overview: Any golfer can appreciate the site of rolling hills and tree-lined fairways leading to a plush green. Pine Hills is truly one of the finest golf courses throughout Wisconsin’s historic Northwoods featuring GPS in each cart and is well-maintained throughout the course. Conveniently nestled among thousands of towering pines, each hole has its own unique characteristics that will challenge the seasoned golfers with risk verse reward decisions, or more simple safe shots for higher handicaps. Pine Hills is truly one of the finest golf courses throughout Wisconsin’s historic Northwoods.
GRAND NATIONAL GOLF CLUB AT GRAND CASINO HINCKLEY (HINCKLEY, MN)
1-320-384-7427
GrandCasinoMN.com
Yards from the Tips: 6,843
Rating: 72.9 Slope: 137
Course Overview: Grand National Golf Course offers players the ultimate challenge on the links and is conveniently located next to Grand Casino Hinckley. No matter what your
skill level, Grand National is home to some of the best golf in Minnesota with gently rolling hills, ponds, marshes and creeks, hardwood native trees, and wide Bentgrass fairways. With the yardage from the tips coming in at just under 7,000 yards, the full course will challenge the most skilled golfers and shorter tees will make it more manageable for the more casual players.
SAGE RUN GOLF COURSE
1-906-723-2254
Islandresortgolf.com/sage-rungolf-club
Yards from tips: 7,334
Rating: 76.4 Slope: 147
Cost to play: $49 - $85
Course Overview: These two gems of golf courses were both designed by Paul Albanese. Sweetgrass features an open layout with some of the game’s most fun greens to putt on as well as some wonderful strategic holes -- including the famous island green No. 15 and spectacular double green with finishing par-five holes on each side. The course, which plays host to the newly dubbed EPSON Tour’s Island Resort Championship, is ranked among Golfweek’s Best Courses and proud to be titled both the 2021 Michigan Golf Course of the Year and National Golf Course of the Year for 2022.
THE BRIDGES GOLF CLUB AT HOLLYWOOD GULF COAST
1-228-469-2100
HollywoodGulfCoast.com
Yards from the Tips: 6,841
Rating: 73.5 Slope: 138
SWEETGRASS GOLF CLUB & SAGE
RUN GOLF COURSE AT ISLAND
RESORT & CASINO (HARRIS, MI)
SWEETGRASS GOLF CLUB
1-800-682-6040
Sweetgrassgolfclub.com
Yards from the Tips: 7,275
Rating: 143 Slope: 75.2
Cost to play: $45 to $80
Sage Run is ranked among Golfweek’s Best Courses, offers a contrasting style from its sister course. The course meanders through the beautiful Upper Peninsula hardwoods, open vistas, and a very dramatic ridge -offering a scenic variety of shots that collectively create a fun thrill ride for golfers. The course annually plays host to some of the top collegiate players with The Island Resort Intercollegiate at Sage Run.
Sweetgrass and Sage Run both rank in the Top 20 courses you can play in Michigan as well as high on national golf course rankings.
On the banks of Mississippi’s beautiful Bay of St. Louis, set among 600 acres of mossdraped live oaks, stately pines, magnolias and sweeping vistas of saltwater marsh, lies the canvas for an extraordinary golf experience.
This 6,900-yard, par 72 signature masterpiece is a work of art sculpted by one of the century’s great players and nationally-renowned golf course architect Arnold Palmer. Consistently rated among the top golf course architects in the country, Palmer has taken a superb gift of land and water and crafted it into a rare test of sport and spirit. Over 21 bridges, spanning nearly one mile in length, and bulkheads are incorporated into this magnificent layout.
LAVA LINKS GOLF CLUB AT SCARLET
PEARL CASINO RESORT (GULF COAST)
1-888-752-9772 ScarletPearlCasino.com
Open Mon – Thurs: Noon – 8pm Friday – Sunday: 10am – 10pm
Adults: $10 | Seniors/Military: $8 | Children 5-11: $7 Extra Round: $5
When it comes to casino resort amenities and extra-curricular activities, one of the more unique and entertaining ones has to be Lava Links Golf Club at Scarlet Pearl Casino Resort on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. These two championship-style miniature golf courses offer the perfect opportunity for ‘extra golf’ with your buddies after the
sun goes down. The courses feature lush gardens, waterfalls, music and an erupting volcano! Be sure to carve out a couple hours to stop by Lava Links on your next Gulf Coast Visit.
LICK RESORT (WEST BADEN, IN)
1-888-936-9360 | FrenchLick.com
Yards from the Tips: 8,102
Rating: 80.0 Slope: 148
Course Overview: Sketched on a napkin and carved into history by Hall of Fame architect Pete Dye, this course hosted the Senior PGA Championship in 2015 and champion, Colin Montgomerie
called it “one of the iconic courses” in America and one that golfers all over the world will want to play. This championship golf course on one of Indiana’s highest elevation points has narrow, immaculate fairways and rugged, intense terrain. The Pete Dye Course has gained national acclaim for its 40-mile panoramic views of the southern Indiana countryside, three manmade lakes, “volcano” bunkers and a variety of elevation changes. A robust 8,100 yards from the professional tees punctuate Dye’s signature sting from vista to vista.
SAIL THE SEAS WITH CELEBRITY CRUISES
Imagine a gaming vacation that allows you to enjoy all the comfort and amenities of the most wellappointed hotels, first-class service, fine dining with menus crafted by a Michelin-starred chef, a stateof-the-art spa, Broadway-caliber entertainment, exciting night life, the opportunity to travel the world, and a world-class casino. No need to imagine it. Celebrity Cruises delivers all this and more.
The most important aspect of your gaming getaway is, of course, the casino. That’s why no detail was overlooked to provide you with a
sophisticated yet dynamic playing environment in which to enjoy your favorite games. Try your luck at one of the fleet’s nearly 2,500 slot machines or 150 table games. Take your gaming experience to the next level as a member of the Blue Chip Club where the more you play, the more you earn. Joining is as easy as swiping your SeaPass® card while playing any slot machine or table game. Plus, you’ll receive $20 in Free Play as soon as you earn your first 20 points. As you play, you’ll access six membership tiers with additional benefits and exclusive perks. With custom limits, late hours, action-packed cruise tournaments, complimentary cocktails while you play, and better odds, our casinos
offer everything players could possibly want in a smoke-free environment. Whether you prefer slots, dice, or cards, you’ll discover why there are gaming cruises, and then there are Celebrity gaming cruises.
Your accommodations are where your days begin and end, so they must fulfill your every need, and even a whim or two. Celebrity Cruises offers numerous stateroom options to suit all travelers including the ultimate in luxury, the suites of The RetreatSM, with its exclusive privileges including private dining,
a sundeck and lounge reserved for Retreat guests, and a Personal Retreat Host who will ensure you want for nothing on board or on shore. For the pinnacle of personalized service, the Concierge Class staterooms include special amenities and your own dedicated stateroom attendant who can arrange anything to make your cruise even more enjoyable and relaxing. With accommodations like this, it’s understandable if you’re reluctant to leave your room.
No gaming vacation is complete without fine dining and Celebrity offers some of the finest at sea. You’re sure to adore the creative menus inspired by the regions Celebrity visits and the variety of dining options, from casual to gourmet. You’ll savor every bite as you enjoy dishes crafted by Michelin-starred
chef, Cornelius Gallagher. Celebrity’s Global Culinary Ambassador, the world-renowned restaurateur, Daniel Boulud transforms meals into gourmet journeys at his first signature restaurant at sea, Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud. A perfectly prepared cocktail created by an expert mixologist is the perfect way to stimulate your palette in anticipation of what’s to follow. While you consider the extensive menus, a certified sommelier will assist you in selecting the perfect wine for your meal from the most awarded wine collection at sea. And with Celebrity’s Select Dining, you dine when you choose and with the guests you choose.
Need to disconnect and recharge? You’ve come to the right place. From the moment you step on board, you’ll feel more relaxed as you pass through
the streamlined spaces on your way to your stateroom or suite. Begin your day with one of the numerous first at sea fitness programs to get energized for the experiences that await you. After your workout, reward yourself for your effort with one of the 120 rejuvenating Destination Inspired Treatments at The Spa. When you sail with Celebrity Cruises, it’s truly all about you.
There has never been a better time to take your next gaming getaway. Go to celebritycruises.com/casino or email bluechipclub@celebrity.com to learn more about the unique gaming vacation experience that awaits you. Be sure to sign up to receive news about exciting casino events, special offers and exclusive benefits for Blue Chip Club members.
CELEBRITY CRUISES OFFERS A PREMIUM GAMING EXPERIENCE FOR GUESTS.
Inside the world of thoroughbred horse racing, there is a title that transcends all other turf trophies combined. Conferred only on those extraordinary occasions when an equine manages to maneuver their way through a next to impossible gauntlet known as the “Triple Crown Series”, the moniker of “Triple Crown Champion” is accordingly rarer than 18kt gold “hen’s teeth”. Correspondingly, it’s worth mentioning that over the last 150 years; only 13 thoroughbreds have managed to successfully scale the “Sport of Kings’” most challenging mountain.
Made up of three routes that are restricted to three-year old runners, thoroughbred horse racing’s Triple Crown Series commences with the Kentucky Derby. Disputed on the first Saturday in May at Churchill Downs in Louisville, KY, the Kentucky Derby is contested over a distance of 1 1/4 miles. Two weeks after the “Run for the Roses”, the Triple Crown Series relocates to Baltimore, MD. It is there inside of Pimlico Race Course where the Preakness Stakes plays out over a radius of 1 3/16 miles. Following a three week hiatus, the Triple Crown Series climatically concludes at Belmont Park in Elmont, NY. Battled
out over twelve furlongs (1 1/2 miles) of deep sandy going, the Belmont Stakes has therefore been christened “The Test of a Champion”.
Now that you know what achieving turf immortality entails, you’re probably thinking, “A horse would have to border on supernatural in order to procure a Triple Crown Championship!” Well, while this notion is entirely true, there are likewise more than a few idiosyncrasies associated with those four-legged athletes that comprise the “Sport of Kings’” most elite fraternity. With that said, here are
some fun facts about thoroughbred horse racing’s 13 Triple Crown Champions!
Sir Barton (1919) - Prior to his gate to wire score in the Kentucky Derby, Sir Barton had collected a grand total of 0 wins from 6 lifetime starts. Worth noting too is that since Churchill Downs and Pimlico Race Course were fierce “industry rivals” in the early 1900’s, Sir Barton actually wound up competing in the Preakness Stakes just four days after he won the “Run for the Roses”. Eventually paired against the renowned Man o’ War on October 12th, 1920 at Kenilworth Park in Ontario, Canada in what was called, “The Race of the Century”, a sorefooted Sir Barton consequently failed to fire and hence lost by 7 lengths.
Gallant Fox (1930) - In 1930, the Preakness Stakes was run eight days before the Kentucky Derby and in back of a narrow win at Pimlico Race Course, Gallant Fox triumphed by 2 lengths beneath the Twin Spires of Churchill Downs (alas, this winning margin should have been much larger). See for whatever reason, Gallant Fox would tend to slow down once he had made the lead. A beast that was also notorious for “rubbernecking”, Gallant Fox actually missed the break entirely in the 1929 Tremont Stakes because he was spying a low flying plane.
Omaha (1935) - The only Triple Crown Champion who is the son of a Triple Crown Champion (Gallant Fox), Omaha is likewise the only Triple Crown Champion to compete
overseas. Entered in the 1936 Ascot Gold Cup by owner William Woodward Sr., Omaha ultimately lost Europe’s premier route by a whisker to a big time racer named Quashed.
Longtail.” A brute who owned a propensity to “bolt” towards the outer rail once the gates opened, Whirlaway actually ran his entire first race alongside Lincoln Fields’ exterior barrier (and still won).
War Admiral (1937) - A product of Man o’ War’s loins, War Admiral loathed the starting gate to a degree that could not be measured. In fact due to his refusal to “load in”, the prized possession of owner Samuel D. Riddle delayed the start of the 1937 Kentucky Derby by eight full minutes. Truly the only black mark on an otherwise sparkling résumé, War Admiral was beaten by 4 lengths when he faced off against Seabiscuit “mano y mano” in the 1938 Pimlico Special.
Count Fleet (1943) - Much is made about Secretariat’s 31 length win in the Belmont Stakes but most turf aficionados don’t know that Count Fleet won “The Test of a Champion” by (a not too shabby) 25 lengths. The son of a Kentucky Derby Champion (Reigh Count 1928) Count Fleet likewise sired a Kentucky Derby Champion (Count Turf 1951).
Assault (1946) - The only Triple Crown Champion foaled in Texas, Assault’s life changed forever when he accidentally stepped on a surveyor’s stake as a yearling. Somehow still able to run like the wind after being scarred for life, the “Lone Star State’s” favorite equine son was thereafter nicknamed the “Club Footed Comet”.
Citation (1948) - By virtue of securing 18 wins (16 of those Stakes victories) from 19 starts, Citation owns the most impressive season ever assembled by a three-year old racehorse. Thanks in large part to this mythical campaign; Citation became thoroughbred horse racing’s first ever millionaire in 1950.
Whirlaway (1941) - Because his tail touched the ground when he was standing still, Whirlaway was nicknamed (what else but) “Mr.
Secretariat (1973) - Perhaps a more impressive statistic than his 31 length victory in the Belmont Stakes is the reality that each of Secretariat’s quarter-mile Belmont splits unfolded faster than the preceding one. In his final race (Woodbine Racetrack’s Canadian International Championship Stakes) Secretariat
was piloted to victory by Eddie Maple instead of regular jockey Ron Turcotte (who was serving a riding suspension).
Seattle Slew (1977) - Purchased at auction for a paltry $17,500, Seattle Slew (career earnings $1,208,726) is thus thoroughbred horse racing’s version of a winning lottery ticket. Oddly enough, Seattle Slew died in 2002 on the 25th anniversary of his Kentucky Derby victory.
Affirmed (1978) - A great-great grandson of 1937 Triple Crown Champion War Admiral, Affirmed narrowly fended off another superstar named Alydar in all three legs of the Triple Crown Series. (Certainly a “double-edged” distinction, Alydar is the only horse in history to run second in each leg of the Triple Crown Series.) As adept in the stud barn as he was on the racetrack, Affirmed eventually sired over 80 Stakes winners.
American Pharoah (2015) - The owners of American Pharoah picked their horse’s misspelled name from a fan submission contest on their website. A fifth-place finisher in his career debut, American Pharoah would go on to break the longest drought in the history of the Triple Crown Series (37 years).
Justify (2018) - Co-owned by two different outfits, Justify appropriately carried (majority owner) WinStar Farms’ colors in the Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes and (minority owner) China Horse Club’s colors in the Belmont Stakes. Justify is also the only Triple Crown Champion to retire undefeated (6 for 6).
Unique as they are talented, thoroughbred horse racing’s dissimilar class of Triple Crown Champions offer us a stark reminder that we as fans can never confine equine eminence to a box. Furthermore, it’s probably logical to assume that the “Sport of Kings’” fourteenth sovereign will posses their fair share of peculiarities. (Um, probably more than their thirteen predecessors combined!)
The longer I live, the more I subscribe to the adage, “You get what you pay for.” From larger purchases like houses and cars to smaller expenditures like food and wine, I truly believe that if you go cheap, you’ll regret what you reap. Proportionately, the aforementioned proverb positively proves true when we’re talking about thoroughbred horse racing.
I will be the first to admit there’s no guarantee attached to high priced horseflesh (take the Green Monkey for example, a $16 million dollar two year-old purchase back in 2006 who ultimately retired 0 for 3). Conversely, it is common knowledge that Medina Spirit (your 2021 Kentucky Derby Champion) was originally picked up at auction for a grand total of $1,000 (See what I did there?). Alas, I have followed the “Sport of Kings” long enough to know that the aforementioned “inverse instances” are certainly exceptions rather than the rule.
All told, the price an equine typically costs at auction can be a very valuable piece of information when it comes to handicapping a thoroughbred horse race. For example, in the minutes leading up to this year’s 1 3/16 mile Grade 2 Louisiana Derby, I noticed the Todd Pletcher trained Kingsbarns (who had easily won last time out in a 75k Optional Claiming race at Tampa Bay Downs) had been “bet down” a bit from his 6-1 morning line odds. At first glance, I thought the inflow of “action” on Kingsbarns was exclusively tied to the presence of his top tier trainer (Todd Pletcher) and rider (Flavien Prat). That was until I read the Racing Form’s fine print.
Assuming a thoroughbred was sold at auction, their sale price will usually be listed directly above their “past performance” (or running) lines. In this case, Kingsbarns (a son of the prolific sire Uncle Mo) was sold at Fasig-Tipton’s 2022 Gulfstream sale for (cue drum roll…) a whopping $800,000! When considered in conjunction with Kingsbarns’accomplishments, this key economic data “put me over the top” concerning my conviction that I had indeed bumped into a horse that could handle his forthcoming “step up” into Graded Stakes company.
Upon breaking clean from post #6, Kingsbarns proceeded to set sensible fractions as he led
the Louisiana Derby field around the first turn and into the backstretch. Subsequent to being “shaken up” by Flavien Prat midway through the lane, Todd Pletcher’s latest protégé proceeded to power home by a comfortable 3 1/2 lengths. Truly the “easiest of winners” at day’s end, Kingsbarns returned $11.00 (or a 450% profit) for every $2 wagered.
Believe it or not, a very similar situation to the one I just described played out inside of this year’s edition of the Tampa Bay Derby. When the Racing Form came out, I noticed the #6 horse, Tapit Trice, (again trained by Todd Pletcher) was “stepping up” into Tampa Bay Downs’ 1 1/16 mile Grade 3 feature contest off of an effortless 8 length victory in a $75K Optional Claiming race. Already assuming this racer was “live” (since Todd Pletcher at the time owned a record five Tampa Bay Derby titles), my suspicions were affirmed when I noticed Tapit Trice had sold for $1.3 million at Keenland’s 2021 September yearling sale. The eventual winner of the Tampa Bay Derby by 2 widening lengths, Tapit Trice is thus another recent racer that lived up to their pecuniary hype.
As we start to wind down, I feel that I am obligated to make something abundantly clear. I am by no means saying that you should ever risk your entire bankroll on a horse simply because they sold at auction for seven figures. Rather, the angle we have outlined in this column should be employed primarily in those situations where a pricey pony has already demolished lesser foes and is now facing Stakes Company for the first time.
In summation, remember that at day’s end; the sort of people who have $1 million dollars to spend on a thoroughbred racehorse are the same individuals who have a team of proven industry experts working for them that can spot future Champions from a mile away. Each armed with a proven track record of multiplying their clients’ cash; these specialists are also forever augmenting their IQ when it comes to those vital nuances like pedigree, conformation, and equine body-language. Hence, the next time you see a “sales-topper” strut into the winners’ enclosure, know that for those who bet said beast, it wasn’t as hard as splitting an atom. It’s just that in horse racing (typically), “You get what you pay for”.
by ERIC FLOYD
“BETTING POOLS IN THESE RACES CAN HANDLE A SIZABLE BET WITH NO ADVERSE EFFECT ON YOUR PAYOUT”
Betting on baseball can be an exciting and potentially profitable endeavor. However, like any form of sports betting, it requires a solid strategy and approach to maximize your chances of success. In this column, we highlight a few ways to wager, and hopefully win, on your next baseball bet.
Moneyline betting is the simplest and most popular way to bet on baseball. It involves picking the team you believe will win the game outright. The odds on a moneyline bet are expressed as a negative or positive number. A negative number indicates the favored team, while a positive number indicates the underdog. (Ie. If the Red Sox are listed at +350, they would be the underdog and a $100 bet would return $450 for a $350 profit if they win.)
When betting on the moneyline, it’s important to consider a team’s recent form, starting pitcher, and overall record. You can also take into account factors such as the ballpark, weather conditions, and injuries.
Run line betting is similar to point spread betting in other sports. The favorite is given a handicap of say -1.5 runs, while the underdog is given a 1.5 run head start. This means that the favorite needs to win by at least 2 runs to cover the spread, while the underdog can either win the game outright or lose by no more than 1 run.
Run line betting can be a good option if you believe that the favored team will win comfortably. However, it’s important to be aware that the odds-on run line bets can be less favorable than moneyline bets.
Over/under betting involves betting on the total number of runs scored in a game. The sportsbook will set a line for the total number of runs, and you can bet on whether the actual total will be over or under that line.
When betting on the over/under, it’s important to consider factors such as the starting pitchers, the weather conditions, and the ballpark. Certain ballparks are known for being more hitter-friendly or pitcher-friendly, which can impact the number of runs scored.
Starting pitchers can have a huge impact on the outcome of a baseball game. It’s important to consider a starting pitcher’s recent form, their stats against the opposing team, and their overall record.
You should also take into account the bullpen and the team’s overall defensive performance. A strong starting pitcher can give their team a solid foundation, but a weak bullpen or poor defense can let them down.
Baseball is a sport that lends itself well to advanced statistics. There are a number of advanced metrics that can be used to analyze player and team performance, such as OPS (on-base plus slugging), ERA+ (adjusted earned run average), and FIP (fielding independent pitching).
By using advanced statistics, you can gain a deeper understanding of a team’s strengths and weaknesses. This can help you to identify value bets and make more informed decisions when betting on baseball.
Finally, it’s important to remember that betting on baseball should be approached with a clear head and a rational mindset. It can be tempting to bet on your favorite team or to chase losses, but this can lead to poor decision-making and ultimately result in losses.
Instead, you should approach each bet objectively and consider all relevant factors. This can help you to make more informed decisions and increase your chances of success.
In conclusion, there are a number of key strategies that can be used when betting on baseball. By considering factors such as moneyline and run line betting, over/under betting, starting pitchers, advanced statistics, and an objective mindset, you can increase your chances of success and enjoy a potentially profitable betting experience.
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One of the most exciting and potentially rewarding moves in blackjack is splitting pairs. This strategy involves dividing a pair of cards of the same value into two separate hands and playing them as individual hands.
The first thing to understand about splitting pairs is that it is not always a good idea. Whether or not you should split a pair depends on a number of factors, including the value of the dealer’s up card and the specific rules of the game you are playing. Generally, the best pairs to split are aces and eights, while the worst pairs to split are tens and fives.
When you split a pair of aces, you have the opportunity to create two hands that start with a strong value of 11. In most cases, it is wise to split aces. However, there are some casinos that have rules in place that prevent you from splitting aces more than once. This means that if you draw another ace after splitting, you will not be able to split again and will be stuck with a hand of 12. Make sure you understand the specific rules of the game before you decide to split aces.
Splitting eights is another smart move in most situations. If you have a pair of eights, you have a hand value of 16, which is a weak hand in blackjack. By splitting the eights, you have the opportunity to create two separate hands that can potentially improve.
On the other hand, you should avoid splitting pairs of fives and tens. Splitting fives will give you two hands with a starting value of 5, which is a weak hand in blackjack. Similarly, splitting tens will give you two hands with a starting value of 10, which is a strong hand in blackjack. Splitting tens is generally not recommended because it is difficult to improve on a hand of 20, and you run the risk of getting two weaker hands.
When deciding whether or not to split a pair, it’s also important to consider the dealer’s up card. If the dealer has a weak up card (2 through 6), it’s generally a good idea to split pairs more often. Splitting pairs can increase your chances of winning by creating more opportunities for strong hands. However, it is important to understand when and how to split pairs to make the most of this strategy.
Here are the four types of pairs that can be split:
Aces – Splitting a pair of aces is always a good idea because it gives you two chances to get a blackjack. When you split aces, you will receive only one additional card for each ace. If you get a ten or face card, you will have a blackjack on one hand and a strong hand of 21 on the other. If you get a lower card, you can continue to hit or stand to improve your hand.
Eights – Splitting a pair of eights is also a good move in most cases. When you split eights, you have two weak hands of 8, but if you get a ten or face card on either hand, you will have a strong hand of 18. If you get an ace, you can use it as a one or an 11, depending on the other cards in your hand. If you get a lower card, you can continue to hit or stand to improve your hand.
Nines – Splitting nines is not always a good idea, but it can be a smart move in certain situations. If the dealer has a weak upcard of 2 through 6, it is recommended to split nines. This is because the dealer is likely to bust, and splitting nines gives you two chances to get a strong hand of 19. However, if the dealer has a strong upcard of 7 through Ace, it is best to stand on a hand of 18.
Tens – Splitting tens is almost never a good idea because you already have a strong hand of 20. Splitting tens can only result in weaker hands, and it is unlikely that you will improve either hand.
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