The plot thickens in week two of a new handicapping championship offered by Racetracks Of Ontario Marketing & Promotions (ROMP)

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The ROMP Handicapping League debuted at six Ontario tracks on January 7. Last night’s round marked week two of the eight-week contest.

The Hurricanes from Georgian Downs scored top billing with a bankroll of $97.20 in the 10-race, three-track contest. Steve, Don and Hazel Halkes are the Hurricanes, and will receive $100 for their efforts. Their cumulative bankroll of $134.30 is runner-up to last week’s winner, Team Condor from Western Fair Raceway ($151.50).

The inaugural ROMP Handicapping League offers a minimum of $10,000 in prize money on Thursday nights for eight weeks until February 25. The league is offered at the following tracks: Clinton, Flamboro, Hanover, Georgian, Grand River, and Western Fair. Hiawatha Horse Park is also part of the competition and will commence play once their simulcast racing operation resumes.

League teams consist of three members who compete against teams at participating facilities. There is a $10 cost per team, per week, which entitles the team to three free programs from the three-track standardbred menu.

All entry fees are added to the $10,000 grand prize offering. With more than 50 teams now registered, the grand prize after week two is currently valued at $11,000. Each team’s weekly cumulative (hypothetical) bankrolls will determine which two teams from each track will advance to the finals on March 4.

Those who wish to participate still have plenty of opportunity, as teams must compete in only four of the eight league nights to be eligible for the final. Week three is next Thursday, January 21.

Full league details and standings are available on the ROMP website.

ROMP is a collective of marketing managers from racetracks and industry associations working together to maximize marketing opportunities and resources.