It's no surprise that the name of one of the greatest horses of our generation is "Cigar." The image of a gambler at the track smoking cigars and reading the racing form is an iconic one in the United States.That’s because it’s a natural combination. Horse racing is an outdoor activity, and a tout would spend their time as close to the horses as possible, looking for any edge in either the animal or his jockey. With their cigar lighter at the ready for a fresh smoke, they would nervously eye the competition, place their bets at the last minute, and puff furiously as the animals raced around the track. At the finish, they’d either go collect their winnings or tear up the losing tickets.
Now, of course, a lot of the betting takes place in OTB parlors, and horse tracks are having a harder time coming up with the purses needed for big races. But if you go to the track – and everyone should every now and then – feel free to light up a fine Dominican cigar, stand by the rail, and curse your bad luck like your grandfather and grandfather did before you.
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