by David Siegel, for the California Amateur Driving Club

Sacramento, CA — The first leg of the 2011 TVG Get Away Amateur Series took place in two divisions this past Saturday (June 4). The races were among the highest handling contests of the year, paying testament to the strength of TVG, which aired the races live, and the variety the amateur program brings to Cal Expo.

While the two favorites won both events (Laredos Goose–Nick Casale and Gorgeous Forever–David Siegel), long shots ruled the day in the place (42-1, 15-1) and show (32-1, 12-1) positions resulting in superb value for the betting public.

The drivers, randomly assigned to their mounts, are tightly bunched in the standings after the first of three weeks of racing. Nick Casale (16 points) leads David Siegel (15 points) and newcomer Amanda Fraser (13 points) who had a second and third place finish in her first amateur series appearance.

Both drivers and horses earn points and the horses will divide an $8,200 bonus pot at the conclusion of the series in addition to the $2,000 purse level for each of the six races.

Free past performances and selections are offered in support of the series and available at www.trackmaster.com/calx.

The two races on Saturday night are scheduled for races 7 and 9 on the 13-race card, and will be aired on TVG.

For general information about the California Amateur Driving Club, visit www.thecadc.com.