This Saturday night at the Meadowlands, one astute horseplayer will take home the $40,000 winner’s cheque and the World Harness Handicapping Championship title. One finalist that could really use the $40,000 is Blaine McKenna of Alberton, PEI.

McKenna, a handicapping enthusiast who also trains standardbreds, just lost his home in a fire late Tuesday night. Fortunately, there were no injuries and the cause is still to be determined. Despite his tragic loss, Blaine was in good spirits and added that the fire has given him more motivation to win the championship. If that happens this will be the luckiest and unluckiest week of his life!

McKenna competed in Red Shores’ WHHC qualifier and finished second to veteran handicapper Conrad Perry. Perry had to withdraw as the WHHC dates conflicted with a trip to Cuba that he had already booked. So, the officials at Red Shores Racetrack and Casino were able to offer the spot to McKenna.

McKenna has a stable of 11 horses and races regularly at both the Summerside and Charlottetown tracks. McKenna’s stable star, Bet The House, had seven wins in 11 starts last year at Summerside to help McKenna score the top trainer spot for wins.

The 2013 World Harness Handicapping Championship will bring together horseplayers from across North America to compete for $100,000 in prize money this Saturday. The WHHC is a partnership between the Meadowlands and the United States Trotting Association formed to create the industry’s ultimate tournament experience. Standardbred Canada supports the project by facilitating the participation of Canadian racing and wagering outlets.

The player with the highest bankroll based on wagering from 10 races will be the winner. Prize money will be awarded to the top 10 finishers, and all players will keep their winnings.

To take a look at the format of the event and players who have qualified, click here.

Fast Facts:

Hometown
• Alberton, PE

Favourite Racetrack
• The Meadowlands

Favourite Driver
• Bill O’Donnell

Favourite Stake Race
• Meadowlands Pace

Biggest ticket ever cashed
• $39,000