Learning the ropes at the races can help tremendously especially when attending the McDowell Signature Indian Derby this Sunday. Here’s a slightly tongue-in-cheek look at some of the terms that will help:

Derby – The most important word to know this Sunday and unlike what some people believe it is not a series of races. Nor is every race a Derby and it certainly is not pronounced ‘Dearby’ unless you live in the United States of America. Well then what is it? It’s one single race for four year old horses in India and is run only once each year. While a derby is also a curved hat, that isn’t what we are talking about here.

Bet – This is what most people like to do at the races. It’s the process of putting money on a horse in the hope of returns and generally in multiples. While betting is often frowned upon by people who have never done it, once a person bets it’s hard to get him to stop. Many fortunes have been won and lost and most betting people will philosophically justify the habit by saying “life is a gamble”, or “I’ve been married twice. How can there be any bigger bet?”

Bookmakers – Also known as bookies, these are people at the race course looking to take your money. They sit in stalls and pretend to be your friends. They however, love to see the horses that you have bet on lose. You will never see a bookie smile.

Tote – This is the computerized version of a bookie. A tote doesn’t smile either even though it also takes your money.

Paddock – Also known as a parade ring, this is the area that most people congregate towards before a race. Here is where horses are paraded in order for bettors to select the most likely winners. Most will agree that it’s a bit like choosing a spouse. You head to the bookie certain that you’ve found a winner only to realize later that the horses are in cahoots with the bookies.

Race – This is the actual part where the horses compete with each other. It’s also the part where you realize that your relationship with the horse and bookie has gone sour.

Saddle Up – This is the McDowell Signature Indian Derby drink. Made from whiskey and named after a great race horse, it’s what everyone seeks solace in after the race. May the horse be with you this weekend!