East Rutherford, NJ – Fifty-five contestants vied for $5,000 in prize money in the 2019 edition of the 18 to 30-year old handicapping challenge at Meadowlands Racetrack on Saturday (June 1). Sponsored by Jeff & Paula Gural’s Allerage Farm, the contest offered a $5,000 total prize pool, with payouts to the top three finishers.

Emily Nicol of Rahway, NJ, captured the $2,500 top prize with a $234.80 mythical bankroll.  She hit long-shot Stimulus Plan in the third race for $194.20, which quickly put her into the lead. Nicol remained in first place the entire way finishing with $234.80.

“I liked his name,” Nicol stated when asked what made her select Stimulus Plan 55-1 long shot.  “I just had to pick him with a name like that!”

Christine Kelly of Nutley, NJ, finished in second place with $65.60 to earn the $1,500 prize. Kelsie Quintana of Weehawken, NJ, finished in third place with $58.20 to grab $1,000 in prize money.

There was no contest entry fee. The contest format required players to make a mythical $2 “across the board” wager on one horse in races two through 10 at the Meadowlands. The winner was determined by the player that amassed the largest mythical bankroll from their selections.

Brett Blake was one of 10 lucky $1,000 scholarship winners at the Meadowlands Saturday night. Meadowlands Media Relations Photo.

All contest participants were treated to free hot dogs, hamburgers and other grill items plus soft drinks and water on Victory Terrace, the popular rooftop area at the track.

College students were also given a “stimulus plan” on Saturday.  All received a free live program and $5 betting voucher.  Plus 10 lucky students were randomly selected to receive a $1,000 college scholarship courtesy of Allerage Farm.

Next up at the Meadowlands Racetrack is the Fourth Annual Burger Battle next Saturday (June 8). This free event runs from noon until 10 p.m. and fans are encouraged to come out and taste some of the best local burgers.  Two lucky fans will win a spot at the Judging Table to help determine the top three burgers.  Judging takes place at 4 p.m.

Burger Battle details can be found by clicking here.