Golfers like to gamble. Whether it’s going for the green from 220 yards over a water hazard, or laying $2 a hole with our buddies, taking a few risks makes the game more fun. Heck, impromptu putting challenges are at least a weekly occurrence around the offices of Cascade Golfer. What can we say? We’re golfers, we just can’t help ourselves. That’s why we love the summer — not for the golf, which is great, but for our second love … the ponies. There’s nothing quite like playing a round at Washington National or Auburn Golf Course, then heading over to Emerald Downs to either win back your losses, or put your golf winnings to work for you. And with their annual festivities for Father’s Day (June 15, featuring free ball caps, a terrific brunch and special father/son activities) and Irish Day (June 22, with green beer, corned beef and cabbage and the $50,000 Irish Day Handicap), June’s our favorite month at the track. In fact, we’ll even give you a little inside tip … take the six horse in the fifth race. But you didn’t hear it from us.