National Handicapping Championship Day 1 Review

 

The TI, formerly known as Treasure Island, plays host to this year’s National Handicapping Championship as 480 of the world’s best handicappers converge in Las Vegas, NV trying to capture the $1 million first place prize. The 2-day tournament, sponsored by Daily Racing Form and the NTRA, kicked off Friday with a bang as Freddy the Cap scored in the first mandatory race (Gulfstream Park’s 3rd race) paying $62.20 to win and $21.80 to place. For those who selected him in the contest, they were credited with only $42.00 to win, but the full $21.80 to place.

 

Nolan White from Canton, TX is the halfway leader by accruing a bankroll of $164.30 on day 1. White, a relative newcomer to the tournament scene, qualified for the NHC at Xpressbet, and has a slew of accomplished handicappers chasing him. Tournament veteran, Gaylord Grundy ($146.90) currently stands in 4th. Legendary author/handicapper, Steven Davidowitz (101.80) sits in 25th after the first day. Recent contributor to Horse Racing Nation, David “The Maven” Gutfreund ($101.60) is 28th. Finally, NHC Tour champion, Paul Shurman ($100.40 currently 30th) is in line for a $2 million bonus if able to sweep the tour and championship, a feat that has never been done.  

 

 

 

With the launch of Derby Wars in 2011, the website sent 4 qualifiers to the NHC, and has had a good showing as a whole. Leading the pack from Derby Wars is Phil Hoedebeck, who is currently in 9th place with $122.70. Hoedebeck lead the pack around 3 PM PST, but fell in the standings late as well-priced horses scored in the last 3 races at Santa Anita Park. Other Derby Wars participants include Travis Reese ($100.20, 31st place), Frank Sorensen ($68.40, 101st place) and Argie Bertolucci ($18.40, 392nd place).

 

Action continues Saturday at 9:20 AM PST with Aqueduct Race Course, but mandatory races begin at 10:52 AM with Aqueduct’s 4th. Live scoring can be found at the NTRA website, but check back here for a complete tournament wrap up.