what does first post mean in horse racing

Natashya

2 min read

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23-12-2024

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The term "first post" in horse racing refers to the scheduled starting time of the first race on a racecard. It's a crucial piece of information for both bettors and attendees, marking the official commencement of the day's racing program. Understanding what it means is essential for planning your day at the races or managing your betting strategy.

Understanding the Racecard and First Post Time

Before diving deeper, let's clarify what a racecard is. The racecard is a document listing all the races scheduled for a particular day at a specific racetrack. It includes details like the race number, time, distance, type of race (e.g., handicap, stakes), and the horses competing. The "first post" time is prominently displayed at the top of the racecard, usually near the date and track information.

Why is Knowing First Post Important?

Knowing the first post time is essential for several reasons:

• Planning Your Day: If you're attending a race meeting, knowing the first post time allows you to plan your travel and arrival accordingly. You want to be at the track with enough time to place bets, grab refreshments, and find your seats before the first race begins.

• Betting Strategy: For those betting online or via phone, the first post time provides a clear starting point for your betting activities. It helps you organize your bets, especially if you're tracking multiple races or employing specific betting systems.

• Following Live Updates: Many online and television broadcasts time their race coverage around the first post. Knowing the time helps you easily find live feeds and race updates.

Delays and Unexpected Changes

While the first post time is generally accurate, unforeseen circumstances can lead to delays. For instance, bad weather, track conditions, or late scratches (horses withdrawn from the race) can push the first race back. It's always advisable to check for updates closer to the scheduled first post time, especially if the weather forecast is questionable. Most racetracks have websites and social media pages that provide up-to-the-minute information on any delays or schedule changes.

Beyond the First Post: Timing Your Bets

Knowing the first post time is only the beginning. Understanding the interval between races is also crucial for effective betting. Racecards usually indicate the scheduled start time for each race, allowing you to plan your bets throughout the day. Some bettors utilize this information to spread their bets strategically throughout the racing program.

In summary: "First Post" simply indicates the start time of the first race on the racecard – a key piece of information for anyone involved in or following horse racing.