SC,
I am in the same boat as you. I now work a swing shift (3pm - mid/1am) and on big days will often take the night off.

I find that I do much better when I handicap the races beforehand. As you stated, there is simply too many races going off in a short period of time to make an educated wager. Multi race wagers are impossible if you haven't done your homework beforehand.

Most of my work is done before I get to the track. Last minute selections based on odds, appearance, etc.. is all the real hdcping I do once I get there. I spend at least 2-3 hours the night before studying. Race day is not the time to do your main hdcping. Get your plays together, make your wagers, and have fun.

P-Dub