Harness: Profile of owner/handicapper Ryan Willis

An active member on Twitter, Ryan Willis can often be found chiming in about Harness Racing, particularly as it relates to on-track affairs. Whether it is discussing the way someone drove a horse or management decisions, Willis is never shy about sharing his opinion.

Once a caretaker, he now spends his time wagering daily on Harness Racing and took some time to discuss his path in the sport.

How did you get started in Harness Racing?

I started going to Kawartha Downs when I was a kid, maybe grade 2, but I never missed a race night for years.

My sources tell me you were once a caretaker. Have you ever worked in the sport?

I did a few co-ops [program that allows students to earn credits in an outside work environment] in high school to get out of the real school work and afterwards I stuck around. I loved being around the barn in the summer months but honestly winters sucked.

Do you have family involved in the sport?

My dad and uncle bet but that's it.

Have you ever owned a horse?

I've owned a few horses over the years. Making a comeback with Zebs Watching Thursday night [Race 7 -- Woodbine Mohawk Park].

Is it true that your sole source of income is wagering on horses?

Yes, unfortunately. It's a good thing I live at home with my dad.

You are often very critical of drivers on social media. What makes you think you know more than them in the moment?

I'm not saying driving is easy, it isn't. In any sport the people at home or in the stands are going to criticize efforts that they think are subpar. I'm not sure I'm that critical anyways. I watch probably 10,000 races a year, which is around 75,000 drives, so I don't think I send off that many mean tweets. And to know more than the drivers in the moment (I don't), but mistakes happen. I think I know a lot of the horses' intricacies and probably do more work on the race than basically anyone. So it's not hard to send off a "where was he going?" or "what was we he thinking?" tweet.

Of course it isn't just drivers which endure your wrath via social media. Is it the gambler talking or a passion for the sport?

Probably a bit of both if I'm being honest. So many aspects of the sport could probably be improved upon. But we never change anything so we'll never know. And I do hate losing in the moment. Five minutes later and a few angry tweets later those feelings are gone.

Favorite dinner meal? Snack?

Not as a meal but I love mussels. Candy, Haribo Tangfastics.

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What is your favorite track to visit? Why?

Kawartha Downs, I know all the best hiding spots there so the drivers can't find me.

What is your favorite big event in racing? Why?

North America Cup. Just an awesome night of racing every year.

How often is racing on your mind?

More often than I would ever admit to.

Your favorite sport to watch? Team?

Football for sure. Buffalo [Bills] this year, but hopefully Baltimore [Ravens] gets its act together.

What is one thing about you most people don't know?

I spent a summer building decks and I hate power tools.

What is one word that describes harness racing for you?

Exciting.

Lets talk handicapping...How much time do you spend on a race? On a card?

It depends. Babies [new 2-year-old] I watch every qualifying replay for every horse, so that adds up. But normal winter handicapping as long as I've been watching every night is pretty easy. I've already seen every horses' last line two to three times by the time they are in-to-go again.

What tracks do you play?

Anything in Ontario, Meadowlands and carryovers anywhere.

How many days a week do you play horses?

Five to seven. It depends how bored I am.

What is the best advice you can give about betting horses?

Don't go against your first instinct, it's usually right, and stay away from jackpot bets.

What's the biggest score you've had?

$25,000.

How old are you?

30.

Why aren't more young people involved in the sport as gamblers or just in general?

I really don't know. The ones I bring usually want to come back. But I guess most people my age have no idea what a Standardbred even is.

What can we do to get them involved?

Maybe drink specials. Getting some coverage on Barstool couldn't really hurt. I think people my age are into that.

If you had the power to change one thing in the sport, what would it be?

I'd lower the takeout.

How do you view the future of harness racing?

I try to be as optimistic as possible, so good.

Time for the stretch drive.

Best Horse you ever saw: Muscle Hill.

Best Driver: Tim Tetrick.

Best Trainer: Brett Pelling.

Favorite TV Show?: Billions.

Trotters or Pacers?: Trotters.