Preparing to Trade a Major Race Meeting

Why the Big Meetings Matter

Flagship race meetings generate enormous interest, translating into deep, liquid markets on the exchange. For active traders like us, that’s a golden opportunity—but only if we’re ready for it.

Below is my framework for gearing up before the tapes rise at any major meeting.

Understanding Major Meeting Dynamics

During a marquee event, queue sizes soar and prices tend to drift in broader, shallower patterns than you’ll see on a routine mid-week card.

Volatility often looks lower, yet the sheer volume of money in the market can magnify every decision you make.

If the main exchange feels overcrowded, consider switching to an alternative platform where the order book is a little thinner—particularly during the headline races.

Collect, Analyse, Refine

Long before the first race, I’m already knee-deep in historical data.

I log every tick while I trade, using automation and spreadsheets in the background so nothing slips through the net. After each session I review that data—what worked, what didn’t, and how the market behaviour is evolving. Think of it as continuous improvement for traders: small tweaks compound into big gains over a season.

Record and Relive Your Sessions

Yes, I still screen-record my trading—especially at the big festivals.

Rewatching the footage lets me re-experience the flow of money and my own reactions in real time. Pair that with detailed written notes on market conditions, emotions, and key moments, and you’ve built a powerful feedback loop for the future.

Beware the Wall of ‘Expert’ Advice

When a festival rolls around, everyone seems to have a tip or a system.

Remember: traditional gambling and disciplined trading rarely mix well. Stick to your edge, quantify your risk, and don’t get lured into “value” punts in those fiendishly competitive handicaps.