The last time I was in Vegas I found myself up by $300 after some time at the slots and tables. I decided to spend a couple of hours with the Daily Racing Forum and place the entire amount on a Trifecta at a track I once patronized in Maryland. This was to be straight Trifecta, no box or key bet for me -- just all out and 1,2, 3!
Two hours later I had selected the race and picked a Trifecta. After placing my $300 bet I sat there drinking a beer and waiting for the race to start.
At post time the odds were such that my $300 Trifecta ticket was set to pay in excess of $6,000. Everything went as planned until the final furlong. Suddenly, my number three horse faded to fourth and finished behind some late closer by a nose.
Close but no cigar!