The results are in for the North America Cup “In The Money” Handicapping Challenge with a close finish, reflective of the signature event itself.
Congratulations to John Schneider of Amherstburg, Ont., who was one of the three individuals to earn 95 points over the two-week period. In the event of a tie, a random draw is conducted to select the winner and John emerged the victor thanks to his thoughtful selections.
John became a regular fixture at Windsor Raceway after it was built in 1963, spending the day there with his father. The racing bug worked its way into his system, leading to a fifteen year career both training and driving. Hanging up the lines in 1984 due to other obligations, he remains an avid fan of the sport.
“I watched the big night on television. It’s always nice to be there in person, there’s nothing like the racetrack. You can’t ever beat that experience,” said John. “But they do a great job with the production.”
After the elimination, John was one of many who believed Wiggle It Jiggleit would go all the way in the final. He refused to rule out Wakizashi Hanover, who ultimately claimed the coveted prize.
“I thought Wakizashi Hanover would be close but in the final Wiggle It Jiggleit went such a hot first quarter. With the trip Tim got, he couldn’t lose.”
John has been a regular participant in both the Trot Magazine Fantasy Stable as well as the Fan Club handicapping challenges in the past. His selections will be rewarded with a $50 Fan Club Prize Pack and a photo of the North America Cup winner, Wakizashi Hanover.
Honourable mentions go out to Shane Courbier of Grand Rapids, Mich. and Brian Foster of Rothesay, N.B. who also finished with the top score.