Dodie,

Tough question to get real responses on. I think for the most part, those of us that gamble regularly heavily "overestimate" our results unless you keep very accurate records.

The rebates certainly help. It is impossible for the rebate not to help your ROI, but it isn't the "panacea", the takeout is still higher than in sports betting, even with the rebates. I have gotten back 65k this year in rebates so far, and unfortunately, still showing a loss for the year, mostly because of a very lousy Saratoga meet. Last year, I bet without rebates and showed a small profit.

By the way, there are opportunities out there besides the big rebate shops where you have to be a large bettor to get rebates. I am a big bettor, but couldn't use Jerry's rebate shop because I live in New Jersey. I bet through Pinnaclesports.com and get back 7% on each bet I make, regardless of whether I bet $1 or $1,000. I have no vested interest in adding to their customer base, but they are very reliable. They aren't a rebate shop, but a sportsbook. But very reputable. They have paid out 50k scores for me without a problem. And the rebate makes a difference, as my already bad year, would be a miserable year, if I was another 65k in the hole!