I've been to almost every track, large, small and defunct on the east side of the Mississippi, and I can honestly say my favorite venue is the inner tube season at the Big A.

An early start at 12:30, you are outta there by 4:30. Amenities include a great vantage point for watching the races and viewing the paddock live, no lines at the mutuel windows. After NYRA reshuffled the parking area, the general parking($1) is right next to the Grandstand. For $4.50, they will serve up a bowl of clam chowder which, given a proper dose of tabasco sauce, is rather palatable.

The inner tube itself is very quirky. I like to wait for horses who have shown an affinity for the surface in the past but are currently off form. These animals tend to reawaken once returned to the "squared circle" at generous mutuels.

Belmont during the Fall and Spring used to be so peaceful. I remember sitting at Belmont in the 70s, handicapping, thinking about life, the huge sprinklers watering the turf courses the only real sound; it was among the most peaceful and beautiful places in the entire city. Now, unfortunately, NYRA insists on turning on its "wall of sound" at about 11:15, and the sound of (empty) NYRA talking heads echoes through the (basically empty) facility.

Saratoga is still OK on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Fort Erie is one track I've heard nice things about that I haven't gotten to yet.

Its all about familiarity, feeling confident that you know the trainers and the games they like to play. Yes, create a card is wonderful, but why do battle on multiple fronts?