Only a few weeks remain to qualify for the 2009 National Harness Handicapping Championship.

Harness racing's only tournament to feature a $50,000 guaranteed prize pool, the NHHC will bring together the nation's top handicappers on Saturday, April 25 at Meadowlands Racetrack.

Players may earn their way into the championship through participation in a qualifying tournament at an NHHC partner outlet or by direct buy-in. The cost to enter the 2009 NHHC is $800 [$400 entry fee and $400 tournament bankroll].

The Meadowlands will hold a Last Chance Qualifier on Saturday, April 11. The qualifier is a $100, bankroll-only tournament. The winner receives a free $800 entry fee and bankroll for the NHHC; second through fifth-place receive the $400 NHHC entry fee.

For more information, click here.

Tioga Downs [April 4], Cal-Expo [April 3, 4] and Harrington Raceway [April 17] will also hold qualifying tournaments over the coming weeks. Check the NHHC online calendar for contact information.

David Palmer of San Diego, California captured the grand prize and ultimate bragging rights as the sport's top harness handicapper in the 2008 NHHC. Palmer earned a seat in the championship by winning one of three qualifying tournaments held by YouBet and Cal-Expo. He clinched the 2008 championship with a $1692 bankroll. Carol O'Brien, who qualified through Maywood Park, was the runner-up.

(The Meadowlands)