We are in the heart of the Saratoga meet and the mood on this Board is sour. Time for a little intervention. First, to Jerry and Heather K- gambling, other than for those with a serious problem, is a passionate and emotional pursuit. For most on this Board it combines ego, intellect and most importantly, a form of keeping score. This is a humbling game. If most of the posters on the Board are honest, their lifetime balance as handicappers is negative.So when those who remain silent before a race, try to puff up their egos by shouting \"I had it \" after the race, it is rude, an attempt to puff up your own sense of self in a way that results (whatever the intention) in those who pour their heart and sole into this passion, getting pissed-- particularly during the prime meet of the year. Frank D - a nice guy for those who haven\'t met him - has the cahones- to post many of his plays. When Jerry and Heatherk do the same thing-- well before a race - the Board will,give them a pass if they post a winner. I also suggest we ditch the \" That\'s the way it\'s going to be\" mind set. It is hard to stay focused, not chase and make smart decisions when you feel like the gods are against you. I use movies a as metaphors-- remember the scene in Minnesota Fats where Jacki Gleason has just lost to Paul Newman- he goes and washes up, tugs at his vest and Cooley proceeds to win. Since this board is a pleasant distraction from my compulsively looking at polling data ( you think every 15 minutes is too much?)please bring your A game to the board. Passion, thoughtfulness and ideas is far better than a rank out contest.
