NTRA Press Release
LEXINGTON, Ky.— The final chance to qualify for the 2023 National Horseplayers Championship (NHC) is once again happening on the eve of the tournament, Thursday, March 9, 2023, during the Last Chance/First Chance qualifier at the Horseshoe Las Vegas. Last year’s Last Chance/First Chance Contest yielded a record 21 seats into the weekend’s NHC.
For horseplayers wanting a final shot at competing for the biggest cash prize in Thoroughbred racing contest play and an Eclipse Award, the Last Chance/First Chance qualifier is their opportunity. For those who are already qualified, it’s a way to earn a second entry to NHC 2023. And for those who already hold the maximum two entries to this year’s NHC, the Last Chance/First Chance offers the luxury of securing the very first berths to the 2024 NHC.
The top five places at the Last Chance/First Chance Contest are guaranteed to win a qualifying spot to #NHC2023 provided they are a current 2022 NHC Tour member. One additional qualifying spot to the NHC will be awarded for every 20 entries over the first 140 entries. The top three leaders will share a cash prize pool equal to 30% of entry fees (15% to first, 10% to second, 5% to third) with the balance of entry fees going to the NHC prize pool.
An NHC-eve fixture, the Last Chance/First Chance Contest includes races from across the country. The tournament format requires participants to make a total of 11 mythical WIN/PLACE wagers (four mandatory races and seven player’s choice). A $500 entry fee must be paid in full prior to participating in the tournament. Players may register in person at the Paris Race and Sports Book or online at NTRA.com/NHC2023 (registration closes Wednesday March 8 at 8:00 pm PT). Participants may purchase up to four entries in the Last Chance/First Chance Contest.
To sign up for the NHC Tour, go to www.ntra.com/membership.
