I started riding and showing very young. my parents liked to go to the track. As soon as I was 6 (the age kids were allowed) they would take me, knowing I'd be totally happy for the whole program.
My dad always gave me $10 at the start of the day. I went down to the paddock before every race and after looking and listening, if there was one I wanted to bet I'd go back and tell him and give him some of the money. After the first few times, they always waited to bet to see if I came back, because i did well.
Back in ancient days, the Druids thought black cats were human beings.