While most gamblers just bet blindly at the races, you can apply a bit more analysis and increase your chances of winning dramatically. While it's impossible to predict with 100% accuracy which horse is going to win, you can at least eliminate the ones that are very unlikely to win. While outsiders do win races, it is the exception rather than the rule.

Any good horse betting system is designed to eliminate all the horses that don't stand a statistical chance of winning. If you can eliminate 10 horses from a race, would that make it easier to spot a winner? You bet!

Here are a few things you need to look out for when checking the handicap form.

1. Winners

Always look at the history of the horse you are about to back. Does he/she have a winning history. Its not just previous wins you need to look at. Also look at number 2 or 3 positions. It's a good indication of the horse's ability to keep up with the winners.

2. Runaway Winners

Looking at wins is one thing. Looking at how they won is yet another great indication of the horse's ability. Some horse are runaway winner and when they win they win by 4 lengths or more. Typically these horses, once they get in front, can't be caught and they are great to back.

3. Bad Luck Horses

It's wise to always check the comments from previous races. Sometimes winning horses don't win because of bad luck or other factors that has nothing to do with the horse or it's form. Look out for comments like "stumbled start" that mans the horse simply did not get a good start. Chances are that the horse is in form and capable of winning.

4. Set Small Goals

Never get carried away at the races. It's important to set small winning goals for yourself and when you do find that one great horse that's a "sure thing" keep your emotions in check. Go to the races with a definite plan and stick to it.

Remember that no bet is ever a sure thing. There is always risk. The best thing you can do to be more successful with horse betting is to find a good horse racing system and to master it. All professional punters use betting systems to help them make decisions. The bottom line is that in this game you want to eliminate your risk as much as possible while exposing yourself to as much winning potential as possible.