East Midlands Branch

 

THE INSTITUTE OF MATHEMATICS

AND ITS APPLICATIONS

 

Mathematics, Statistics and Horse Race Betting

(or why Lucky Jim did not win the 3:00 pm at Newmarket!)

 

a talk by

 

Tony Palmer

(previously of De Montfort University)

 

Wednesday 16th May 2007

starting at 7.30 pm

 

De Montfort University, City Campus,

Queens Building, Q1.10

http://www.dmu.ac.uk/aboutdmu/campuses/maps/leic_campus.jsp  

 

Abstract

 

In his book “The Complete Manual of Racing and Betting Systems”, David Duncan’s answer to the question, “Is it possible to beat the “book” by mathematical means alone?”, is a definite “no”.  However, he does suggest that the individual backer can adopt a mathematical approach to enhance the prospect of a credit balance.

 

So we will consider how we might improve our betting – either by reducing our losses or even make a profit (if luck is with us).  We start by trying to identify the races worth betting in (the odds offered are an important factor here) and then look at ways of deciding which horses to back (is it worth backing the favourite?) and considering different betting strategies.

 

We will use both mathematical and statistical techniques to try and achieve the above.

 

 

The 2007 Branch AGM will be held during the evening

starting at 7.00pm, Queens Building, Q1.10

 

No charge is made to attend meetings, non-IMA members are welcome

 

The event is coordinated by East Midlands Branch Secretary, Dr Stephen Hibberd, School of Mathematical Sciences, University of Nottingham, email: stephen.hibberd@nottingham.ac.uk.

Details of East Midlands Branch activities: http://www.ima.org.uk/EMidBranch/ima.html