by Scott Warren, for Vernon Downs
Vernon, NY — In the month of March Vernon Downs hosted two qualifying tournamentsfor the $50,000 World Harness Handicapping Championship, which will take place onSaturday (April 29) at The Meadowlands.
The contestants began with a bankroll of $40 and were taskedwith handicapping both The Meadowlands and Yonkers race cards. Individuals wererequired to wager a total of ten $2 Win-Place bets for the tournament, with nomore than five wagers at either racetrack, while selecting from the first tenraces on each respective program.
On March 11, Ryan Tyreman of Endicott, NY emerged victoriousover 31 other entries and qualified as our first winner. Donald La Londe (Ithaca,NY) grabbed place honors while Kurt Adams from Hanover, PA rounded out thetrifecta.
The second qualifier saw 39 entries vying for top billing andJeffrey Billings of Marydel, DE made the winning move in the final race of thecontest for Yonkers. He placed his final $2 Win-Place Yonkers wager on MelmerbyBeach in the final leg of the Levy Series and in the process added $40.80 tohis bankroll sealing the night’s results. Joe Fortino (NY) and Ryan Risi (Mohawk,NY) were second and third, respectively.
Both winners receive a seat in the WHHC at The Meadowlands($800 value), plus two night hotel accommodations, and $200 for travelingexpenses. Second place walked away with a $250 wagering voucher and third placewas awarded a $100 wagering voucher.