Bob Traynor © Benoit Photo

Bob Traynor, from Oceanside, CA, bested 128 total entries in the two-day Challenge. He sealed the victory with a huge last-race win bet of nearly $10,000 to retake the lead and win by a nose at the wire. Frank Mustari of Des Plaines, IL finished a mere $585 back to secure 2nd place for the second consecutive year. 

The winner finished with a bankroll of $27,985 plus cash and prizes of $107,000 for a grand total of $134,985. Prizes included $88,000 cash and a $10,000 2024 Breeders’ Cup Betting Challenge (BCBC) at Del Mar entry. Traynor also scores two $4,000 entries to the August 31 Pacific Classic Betting Challenge (PCBC) at Del Mar or online through TVG.com. One of the PCBC entries was awarded for being the Day One leader.

Mustari, a heartbreaking second again, finished with a $27,400 bankroll plus cash and prizes of $51,000. Tom Arndt of Carefree, AZ finished in third position.

Participants began with a $4,000 live money bankroll while competing for more than $250,000 in total prizes. The top 12 finishers receive a combination of prizes including cash, seven $10,000 BCBC entries, National Horseplayers Championship spots, and PCBC entries.

Del Mar’s signature handicapping contest is presented by Yammava’ Resort and Casino at San Manuel. The first place finisher also receives a Yaamava’ Resort and Casino at San Manuel Prize Package, including a one-night stay at the resort hotel, $500 in dining credit to indulge in award-winning restaurants, and $200 in free play to experience the thrill of California’s largest casino.