12/20/2005 - A day at the races

So, as I am here in Saratoga, I should probably talk about horses. It's not that I abhor gambling or fail to respect talented riders, I just feel like posting about the phenomenon in its components.

First, gambling. It's not true that every actuary has a yen to gamble, but I think that many are certainly intrigued by it. I tried it out once or twice, but I'm just too risk averse to get hooked. I can definitely sympathize with folks who get addicted. I too am often swept up in the dream of winning big, but happily not while I am gambling...

Horses? I have probably ridden more than twice, but that's all that I remember. I generally dislike the experience. For me, it mostly consists of the shock that I have not yet fallen off the horse. The one thing I do like about riding is having the opportunity to lean forward and pat the horses on the chest. About as close to concrete as you'll ever find a on a living thing...

On an impersonal note, congratulations to John R. Velazquez on his excellent performance at Saratoga in the last 2 months (24 victories in 82 races).

13,900 virtual gallups today. Cheers,