A night at the races for young fans at the Big M

East Rutherford, NJ – Fifty-nine contestants vied for $5,000 in prize monies in the 2021 edition of the 18- to 30-year-old handicapping challenge at Meadowlands Racetrack on Saturday (July 24). The contest offered a $5,000 total prize pool, with prize payouts to the top four finishers.

Erik Polczer from Oak Ridge, NJ was the contest winner in the 2021 edition of the 18- to 30-year-old handicapping challenge at Meadowlands Racetrack on Saturday. Meadowlands Photo.

Brother and sister duo Erik and Kristen Polczer of Oak Ridge, NJ took home first and second place, respectively.  Both contestants scored with Miss Vet Hanover in the sixth race who paid $30 to place and show.  They also both hit with long shot Eazy Pass in race eight for a $57 across the board score.

Erik had two other scores, one in race five and one in race 10 to give him $101.20 and the $2,000 top prize. Kristen finished right behind with $95 earning $1,500.

“I got the call first and couldn’t believe it,” said Erik. “Then when Kristen got the call saying she finished in second place we couldn’t get back out to the Backyard contest area fast enough. It is a great night!”

Aaron Dudek of Garfield, NJ finished in third place with $83.50, winning $1,000. Chris McCann of Highland Oaks, NJ finished fourth earning $500.

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.

All contest participants were treated to BBQ and other grill items plus soft drinks and water in the Backyard.

Next up at the Meadowlands Racetrack is the annual Seafood Food Truck Fest on Saturday (July 31).  This free event runs from 5-11 p.m. and fans are encouraged to come out and taste some of the best seafood around.  The race card features the eliminations for the Hambletonian and Hambletonian Oaks.

Event details can be found at Hambletonian (meadowlandsracetrack.com).

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