October
JanuaryI can't win
I’d like to let the readers of Winning Post in on an email I received from a prominent corporate bookie on Thursday January 6. They advised me that as of 10.15am that day I was no longer permitted to bet on racing-related products with them under their terms and regulations. I was, however, allowed to bet on sports-related products. I subsequently asked for a specific reason why and was told that they are under no obligation to take bets and that no further correspondence would be entered into.
I opened the account in April last year and on my calculations I have made a mere profit of approximately $1800 in nine months.This is the only reason I can think of that they would ban me. I have never bet outside any of the rules and describe myself as a very small punter, betting amounts of usually $25 to $50 with an occasional bet of $100 on a shorter priced horse.
At the time of opening the account I even received a application from the bookie to apply for a credit facility, which I declined. So I am a cash bettor.
Now I am well aware of corporate bookies’ terms and regulations insofar as they can stop people from betting with them but never in my wildest dreams would I think that they would ban a minnow like me who has made such a small profit over a reasonable length of time. I thought that was for the big players who win tens of thousands.
I go to the track regularly on a Saturday here in Melbourne and I know that the rails bookies are compelled to take a cash bet up to losing them $3000, so why are these corporates any different?
Imagine me going up to a bookie on Saturday and asking for $50 on So and So and him saying to me: "You’re a winner so you are barred." It would be laughable.
So fellow punters beware — if you are a winner with these corporate bookies you could well be banned at any time. That is if you’re not already on their blacklist.
I have told the bookie concerned to close my account. I treat the whole thing as a bit of a compliment and a laugh.
The lesson learned here, punters, is I believe it is best for you all to strike up a relationship with one of the many friendly bookies on the track. I’m sure they will love your business and support and never think of banning such a small betting flea as myself.
Mt Eliza (Vic)