FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) - October horse races kicked off at the Big Fresno Fair Friday, attracting fans from all over the state. The fair has hosted racing since 1884, and some like long-time box seat holder Ed O’Neal say the excitement never gets old. “I think there’s nothing like watching the actual race. You can bet on the internet, but it’s much better to watch it live… I’m always concentrating on who’s gonna win,” O’Neal said. 720 horses are racing in Fresno this year, but only some can be winning bets. Robbie Rodriguez sets up a stand outside the race every year to sell his winning picks. “I do it for the people that don't know anything about racing because it's such a phenomenal sport that I love. I mean, you know, the equine athletes, the jockeys, the trainers that have their teams,” Rodriguez said. He works to make fans money but says that’s not what the sport is all about. He says horse racing is about strategy, risk and being invested as a fan. “It’s something unique, something different that, you know, you're going out, you watch a beautiful animal and you watch amazing competition,” Racing Director Larry Swartzlander said. This year, Fresno fans will have twice as long to enjoy the sport. The fair doubled its racing period from seven days to 14 days. “You just feel electricity in the air. We always have a good time. I know it's going to be a great day… I’m enthused,” Swartzlander said. Races continue Oct. 4 to Oct. 6 and Oct.11 to Oct. 14. Swartzlander says he looks forward to seeing every smile and hearing every cheer as horses race toward the winner's circle.