Why do we punt?

Forgive me guys - i'm having a mid-punt crisis(not out of form just investing foolishly)-
I've often wondered why i punt - Is it a desire to win or a desire to lose? Do I really enjoy racing or is it a virus that I can’t shake? I think all the politics of racing has taken it’s toll on me and perhaps it’s time for me to just concentrate on the sport(stupid as the politics control the racing i know but living in a fools paradise) which is a challenge that even the most angst ridden supermodel could not equal. Backing a winning 10-1 is better than most things in life that i've experienced. Anyone else got an idea why they punt?

Its a virus Mr H. I'd rather invest my hard earned cash on the horses than spend R10 in the casino's

Agreed. Casino's suck ! Been there done that !

There is nothing like studying form, assimilating info, and punting a 12/1 shot home (just need it to happen more often though).

Definition of Deceased = one who does not punt.

CAT,that is post of the year in my book!!!!!!!

perhaps i'm too sober Catfish(want to go to the vaal next week to see a gallop or two if you are up to it) - can't seem to construct my bets correctly lately - finding nice runners but the damn exotics have me floored - going back to basics again as it looks like the only way i'll hit the PA is to have fields in all seven legs - have not had a drink since you last twisted my rubber arm hence my reluctance to attend a race meeting(notwithstanding feeling sorry for my pittiful nag) i have taken your wise words to heart and will hence forth only take a bet with the desired outcome only being to make money no matter how large or small the return is - happy fishing -

myself i punt because i dont like having money in my pocket to long and with marks tips its working a treat

Betting is best enjoyed when you don't try to win everything bar the pavillion roof.
Viewing betting as one long continuous process with no beginning and no end is also not a very wise nor profitable approach.
Rather break down your betting activities into manageable portions with a set objective in mind for each part and, once this is achieved, reward yourself with an appropriate dividend and move on to the next in the series.
The duration of each portion is whatever you're comfortable with and whatever is most suitable to reaching an achievable target without undue stress or strain.

Be deliberate in your choices. Above all, avoid impulsive bets.

Of course, all of this calls for the discipline which most of us, myself included, often lack.