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How to Use Past Performances and Tip Sheets in Horse Racing

Learn how to read PPs and tip sheets to uncover betting angles, spot live horses, and make smarter wagers at MyWinners.

Rob Lawson avatar
Written by Rob Lawson
Updated over 3 months ago

Every horse racing bet should be backed by insight — and that’s where Past Performances (PPs) and tip sheets come in. These two tools give bettors the raw data and expert opinions needed to make confident picks. Whether you’re placing a casual bet or building a Pick 5 ticket at MyWinners, learning how to use both will sharpen your edge.


What are Past Performances (PPs)?

Past Performances are detailed charts showing a horse’s recent race history. They include:

  • Finish position, beaten lengths, and race conditions

  • Surface, distance, and track

  • Speed figures and pace calls

  • Trainer, jockey, weight carried, post position

  • Comments about trip, trouble, or effort

Smart bettors use PPs to evaluate form, spot trends, and make race-by-race comparisons.


What are tip sheets?

Tip sheets are expert picks, rankings, and commentary from handicappers. Some are free; others are paid. They may include:

  • Top 3 picks with explanations

  • Suggested wagers or exotic plays

  • Bias alerts, track notes, or longshot specials

  • Trainer and jockey stats worth watching

At Winners venues, many retail locations offer local tip sheets that highlight hot barns and smart angles at regional tracks.


How to use both together

The best bettors cross-reference PPs and tip sheets:

  • Use PPs to understand a horse’s true ability

  • Use tip sheets to check for bias or live longshots

  • Fade favourites that don’t stack up on paper, even if tipped

  • Upgrade longshots with strong PPs but little buzz

Trust data over hype — but keep an ear to the ground.


💡 Did You Know? Sometimes a horse gets ignored in the tips, but its PPs tell a different story. That’s where value hides — when you trust the form, not the noise.


Frequently Asked Questions

Are Past Performances available on MyWinners?

Yes — each racecard includes key PP data like finish position, speed figures, surface, and trainer stats.

Do tip sheets guarantee winners?

No — they offer educated opinions, not certainties. Use them as guidance, not gospel.

Can I get tip sheets at Winners venues?

Yes, most retail locations provide printed tip sheets from local experts. Ask at the counter or info desk.

What’s the best way to learn how to read PPs?

Start with just one horse and work through each line. Over time, you’ll spot patterns like strong finishes, good trips, or consistent speed figures.

Should I always trust the favourite if it’s on top of the tips?

Not blindly. Always verify with the PPs. If the horse looks vulnerable on paper, there may be an opportunity to beat the favourite with a better-priced rival.

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