by Evan Pattak, for the Meadows

Washington, PA — On Wednesday (Dec. 23), the final program of its 2016 live season, The Meadows Racetrack & Casino will offer a $20,000 total-pool guarantee for its Pick-4 wager as part of the United States Trotting Association’s Strategic Wagering Program.

While $5,000 Pick-4 guarantees are regular features each Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, The Meadows sweetened the pot after Tuesday’s Pick-4 was uncovered, resulting in a carryover of $5,236.20.

Adding to the intrigue: Because carryovers between meetings are not permitted, the entire Pick-4 pool — as well as those for the Pick-5 and the final superfecta on the card — must be paid out. Should no bettor pick all four winners in the Pick-4, the pool will be shared by players who pick the most winners.

Minimum wager for the Pick-4 (races four-seven) is 50 cents. Since Pennsylvania law requires a minimum per-race wager of $2, a player wagering at the 50-cent level must bet at least four tickets.

First post Wednesday is 12:55 p.m.