Ruddick’s second-choice selections clinch the win in Grand River handicapping final
Don Ruddick had three shots going into tonight’s final of the Geek Squad Summer Handicapping Tournament at Grand River Raceway
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He earned the trio of entries in the qualifying legs leading up to the $1,000 final which also promised one spot in the $25,000 (est) TROT Canada National Handicapping Championship.
The Ingersoll, ON resident was surprised to learn that the selections he considered second-best actually clinched the top spot from among 117 other entries. In fact, he was nearly perfect, with five consecutive winners and one runner-up from races two through seven..
Ruddick’s bankroll of $57.80 earned him $500 and a shot at the national tournament on November 12 at Western Fair Raceway, where he will represent Grand River Raceway against 49 of the country’s finest punters.
Jim Tangney, Jerry Hauser, John Dametto and Norm Files rounded out the top five finishers in the 12-leg tournament.
Ruddick, 75, is an avid harness racing fan and former owner/trainer/driver. His top campaigner was the ‘70s pacer Rip Loose, a winner of 48 races and $282,000.
Grand River Raceway’s next Geek Squad Handicapping Tournament starts Monday, July 25 with an Early Bird Leg of the Industry Day Handicapping Tournament.
The top five finishers on July 25 will share $250 and the top 30 will receive one bonus entry for the $1,000 tournament on Industry Day (August 1 at 1:30). The winner of the Industry Day Tournament will also win a coveted spot at the $25,000 TROT Canada National Handicapping Championship.
(Grand River Raceway)