After launching a similar contest at Vernon Downs last month with more than 500 entries, Tioga Downs has opened registration for its own version of the Showdown Online Handicapping Contest.

Although the contest does not begin until May 17, free registration is open now.

Tioga Downs Showdown requires contestants to select one horse in any race each racing night. That horse must finish first, second or third in order for the contestant to remain in the competition. If the contestant is successful, they will advance to the next race night, otherwise, they will be eliminated.

The contestant that lasts the longest will win the $1,500 top prize. The runner-up will receive $750.

Tioga Downs has also partnered with Trackmaster to offer contestants free platinum past performances for a selected race of the day throughout the duration of the contest.

“I was really pleased with the response we received to the contest at Vernon and I wanted fans and horseplayers to get the same opportunity to compete for the $1,500 top prize with Tioga up and running now,” said Justin Horowitz, Regional Racing Marketing manager for Tioga Downs.

Fans are encouraged to register now by visiting showdown.tiogadowns.com.

All contestants must be registered and submit their selection no later than 10 minutes before the first post time at Tioga Downs. First-race post time on May 17 is 6:50 p.m.

Free online streaming video is also available on the Tioga Downs website so contestants can follow along with their selections each race night.

Live racing resumes at Tioga Downs Friday (tonight) with a 6:50 p.m. first-race post time.

(Tioga)