from the Batavia Downs Marketing Department

Batavia, NY — Batavia Downs Casino will host the first of three free $1,000 handicapping contests on Friday night, August 14. The free contests are open to all Players Club members (there is no charge to be a Players Club member) that do not hold a valid New York State racing license.

Contestants can pick up their contest forms beginning at 5:30 p.m. at Players Club located on the second floor of America’s Oldest Lighted Harness Track. All contest forms must be submitted by post time of the evening’s first race, 7:05 p.m.

The contest consists of Batavia races 1-9. Contestants are required to select a primary and alternate pick; the alternate pick will only be used in the case of a late scratch.

Contestants receive points based on where their selections finish. If a contestant’s selection wins they receive five points, a second place finish is good for three points and a third place finish is worth one point.

Contestants are also required to circle two best bets in which they receive double points.

The five contestants with the highest point totals at the end of the contest will share in the $1,000 prize money with the winner of the contest receiving $500 in cash.

“It’s an excellent opportunity for our customers to show off their handicapping skills and make some money,” Track analyst Todd Haight said. “We expect to see a very nice crowd Friday night.”

Complete rules can be found on-line at www.bataviadownscasino.com.