Can someone explain:

a) how did he wait until such a late race to begin making wagers when one has to wager $900 per on 5 races that day (wouldn't that alone be a disqualified?) and

b) why would it be different for 2 people to discuss their betting strategies than one person telling himself what his other ticket is holding and trying something different? I just don't understand the collusion part other than a couple of people taking different horses/tacts to try and win some prize money.

I think I must be missing something., just not sure what.