Bond’s view treats gambling as an activity in which chance matters, but preparation, effort and ingenuity can still influence results. The remark does not deny the role of luck. Instead, it suggests that a participant can improve the quality of their decisions by understanding the game, observing carefully and applying skill.

The statement also reflects a broader distinction between passive participation and deliberate engagement. Putting more thought into an activity can produce better information, sharper judgement and a greater ability to recognise opportunities. In gambling, however, these advantages remain constrained by uncertainty, and effort cannot guarantee a favourable outcome.

More generally, the quote presents competence as something developed through active involvement. Its emphasis is on extracting more value from an uncertain situation through preparation and ingenuity rather than assuming that results are determined entirely by chance.