Tony Fannin and Derek Thurber emerged victorious in the World Harness Handicapping Championship qualifier at Hoosier Park Racing & Casino on Saturday, April 8.

Fannin built his $40 mythical bankroll into $65.70 earning him the lion’s share of the prize money, $2,000, and a seat in the $50,000 Bet America World Harness Handicapping Championship on April 29 at the Meadowlands Racetrack. With a final bankroll of $58.80, Thurber earned $1,000 in prize money and a seat into the WHHC final for second-place. Vern Glenn finished third to take home $500.

The format of the qualifying tournament at Hoosier Park required contestants to make 10 $2 win and place wagers on 10 designated Hoosier Park contest races. Fannin got off to a strong start in the first few races of the contest and continued to stay atop the leader board throughout all 10 races. After trailing for much of the contest, Thurber made a comeback in the final two races of the contest to secure his second-place spot.

The seats to the World Harness Handicapping Championship are valued at $800, roundtrip airfare and two-night accommodations will also be provided to the winners by Hoosier Park.

The BetAmerica WHHC is a one-day tournament (April 29, 2017), with a welcome reception the evening prior. The BetAmerica WHHC contest format requires players to bet 10 races: their choice of six Meadowlands races, plus four designated mandatory races from partner tracks. Players keep all pari-mutuel winnings. Prize payouts are to the Top 10, with a guaranteed prize pool of $50,000. For the contest entry form and complete rules, visit playmeadowlands.com.

(Hoosier Park)