When it comes to horse racing, everyone loves a favourite.
If you’ve been punting for a while as I have, you’ll know the real thrill – and often the best value – lies in backing a dark horse at juicy odds.
That’s where lengthen-the-odds tips come in.
These aren’t just random punts on 50/1 no-hopers.
They’re carefully selected horses that the market might have overlooked, but that tick the right boxes if you know what to look for.
I’ll walk you through how I find them, why they’re worth a place in your betting strategy, and how to manage the risks involved.
This isn’t just theory – it’s what I use myself at Joe Norris Tips, especially when I’m hunting for those big paydays that get the heart racing.
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What Are ITV Racing Tips?
If you’re serious about horse racing, then you’ve definitely tuned in to ITV Racing.
It’s the go-to place for free-to-air coverage of major meetings across the UK and Ireland.
Since ITV broadcasts some of the biggest race days—like Cheltenham, Royal Ascot, and the Grand National – it naturally becomes a source of tips and insights for thousands of punters.
I use it myself as a base layer of intel before diving deeper into my own analysis.
How ITV Experts Deliver Their Tips
The tips on ITV come straight from seasoned pundits and ex-jockeys like Matt Chapman, Mick Fitzgerald, and Jason Weaver.
They usually deliver their selections on live broadcasts, pre-race segments, or via the ITV Racing app.
The format works well because it’s real-time and based on what’s happening on the day – like weather changes, market shifts, or late non-runners.
That sort of live insight often reveals things static tip sheets can’t.
Why Punters Follow ITV Racing Tips
People trust ITV Racing tips because the presenters are credible and have proven track records in the game.
Their insights are grounded in years of professional experience and hands-on racing knowledge.
Matt Chapman, for example, isn’t shy about calling out value in the market, and that kind of honesty builds trust with viewers.
When a tipster has nothing to gain from what you bet, it’s easier to believe they’re speaking for punters – not profits.
Impact on Market Movements
ITV tips have a real effect on the market.
As soon as someone like Fitzgerald names a selection, odds start shifting.
That happens because thousands of viewers jump on it at the same time.
Understanding this allows me to either take an early price or hold fire depending on what I see in the market before the race goes off.
Key Tipsters Featured on ITV Racing
Matt Chapman brings a high-energy, data-driven style to his tips.
Mick Fitzgerald leans on his years in the saddle and knows how to read a paddock better than most.
Jason Weaver often mixes form with a tactical understanding of how races are likely to unfold.
Each one has their own flavour – and knowing their styles helps you interpret their tips more effectively.
Unique Approaches Each Expert Brings
The value of following different ITV tipsters lies in their diverse approaches.
Chapman will spot a price move and shout about it.
Fitzgerald will go with the horse he’s seen thriving in the parade ring.
Weaver will angle for tactical setups like early pace or track bias.
That range gives you multiple lenses to view a race through.
How ITV Tips Are Formulated
ITV tips aren’t just off-the-cuff.
These analysts do their prep the night before and combine it with observations from the day’s conditions.
Form, draw, track walk reports – all of it comes into play.
That’s why you’ll often see a change of heart live on air when a tipster sees something new before post time.
Use of Jockey, Trainer, and Weather Insights
A jockey’s strike rate or a trainer’s record at a specific course often influences their picks.
Weather is also a key factor.
Softening ground or a sudden headwind can completely change the complexion of a race.
The ITV team do a good job of communicating those variables to punters watching at home.
Strategies for Using ITV Racing Tips
One tactic I use is waiting for the ITV shout and then checking the market.
If there’s value left, I’ll give it back.
If it’s already steamed in, I look elsewhere for a better price or take a place bet instead.
Timing is everything with televised tips.
Combining ITV Tips with Your Own Analysis
Never take a tip in isolation.
I always match it against my own notes, speed figures, and ground bias.
If it aligns, I go in stronger.
If it doesn’t, I know to keep the stakes modest or pass altogether.
ITV tips are a starting point – not a substitute – for good punting discipline.
Where to Find ITV Racing Tips
You can catch ITV Racing tips live during their broadcasts or in pre-race clips posted online.
They also publish some selections on the ITV website and via their Twitter/X account.
Social media often gives a quicker heads-up if you’re not in front of the telly.
Additional Content from ITV Racing App
The ITV Racing app includes race cards, form guides, and exclusive selections from the on-air team.
I use it as part of my weekend prep because it consolidates a lot of useful info in one place.
Even if you don’t back every tip, it keeps you plugged into the narrative of the day’s racing.
FAQs
What Odds Qualify as “Long Shot”?
Odds qualify as a “long shot” when they go beyond 20/1 because they imply a low probability of winning. I consider anything over that range worth assessing for value, not just price.
How Often Should You Include These in Your Bets?
You should include long shots occasionally and only when the data supports it, because consistent value comes from logic, not just high odds. I use them as strategic plays, not frequent punts.
Can Longer Odds Be Predictable?
Longer odds can be predictable when form, conditions, and market movement align. I rely on deeper data – like pace setups and track bias – to spot these rare but rewarding angles.
Final Thoughts on Lengthen-the-Odds Horse Racing Tips
Long-odds betting isn’t about blind hope.
It’s about finding the horses that the market’s priced too generously – because of missed form, overlooked stats, or subtle angles in race setup.
When I spot one, I don’t just throw a few quid for fun.
I treat it with the same analysis and discipline I use on my strongest fancies.
The key is understanding where value lives, balancing your staking, and keeping a long-term mindset.
Add a few well-sourced long-shots into your overall strategy, and you’ll be surprised at how much they can boost your return over time.
Stick with me at Joe Norris Tips and I’ll show you where to look.
