Mabel A. Shaw
Childhood
Little is known about Mabel Shaw’s childhood, but her passion for horse racing emerged later in life, leading her to become one of the most dedicated gamblers in Hollywood Park’s history.
Career
Mabel Shaw’s name became synonymous with Hollywood Park after its opening in 1938. From June 10, 1938, until her death in 1962, she did not miss a day of racing except due to illness. Even when the grandstand burned down in 1949 and races were moved to Santa Anita, she relocated nearby to continue betting.
By June 19, 1953, she had wagered on 16,032 horses, placing 5,344 win-place-show bets over 668 racing days. By her death, she had bet on 9,769 races, often sending her bets with a friend if she was too ill to attend.
Shaw was also a co-owner of the Inglewood Daily News, balancing her business interests with her gambling passion.
Personal life
Shaw was known for her disciplined betting strategy—she avoided hunches and relied on past performances. In one memorable instance, she couldn’t decide between two horses and bet on both, resulting in a dead heat.
Her favorite jockeys included Willie Steed, Joe Phillippi, Johnny Longden, and Willie Shoemaker, while her top horses were Seabiscuit, Sickle Bill, and Malicious. She even carried one of Seabiscuit’s racing plates to the track, where fellow bettors rubbed their tickets on it for luck.
Revenue
While exact figures of Shaw’s winnings or losses are unknown, her consistent betting over decades suggests she was a high-volume gambler. Her presence at Hollywood Park also contributed to the track’s culture, making her a beloved figure among racing enthusiasts.
Interesting facts
Shaw was an original shareholder in Hollywood Park.
She celebrated every birthday at the track except during WWII closures.
She once said, "Climbing 500 steps daily to place bets keeps me young."
Even when hospitalized, she ensured her bets were placed.
Legacy
Mabel Shaw remains a symbol of dedication in gambling history. Her record-breaking attendance and betting streaks earned her national recognition, and her story continues to inspire horse racing fans.
Frequently asked Questions
By her death in 1962, she had wagered on 9,769 races and had bet on 16,032 horses by 1953.
Only due to illness—otherwise, she attended every race day from 1938 to 1962.
She avoided hunches and relied on past performance statistics.
In 1949, she moved temporarily to Santa Anita to continue betting.
Favorites included Seabiscuit, Sickle Bill, Malicious, and jockeys Willie Shoemaker and Johnny Longden.
