Christian Hellmers © Benoit Photo

Christian Hellmers, from Rancho Santa Fe, CA, hit a race 4 exacta that paid more than $16,000 to blast into the lead. Hellmers held on from there over 206 total entries with a final bankroll of $18,420. In addition, he elected to “Prize Boost” one of his two entries for a $50,000 cash bonus. In a new contest option, all entrants had the opportunity to buy-in for an additional $500 to bet on themselves to win the Challenge at a hefty 100-1 payoff. A total of 16 tried to swing for the fences.

Jeff Deitch from Encinitas and George Scott from Rancho Santa Fe, CA finished second and third to round out the top three and both turned the $500 starting bankroll into five figure results.

Hellmers wins a $10,000 Breeders’ Cup Betting Challenge entry, a Del Mar $5,000 Fall Challenge entry plus cash prizes and bankroll winnings of nearly $100,000. “What a nice divine surprise it is to win almost $100,000. There’s no better place than Del Mar.” He keyed 15-1 shot Mr. Brownstone in second place in race 4 scoring with a $500 exacta.

A total of five entries will be awarded to either the National Horseplayers Championship or the Del Mar $5,000 Fall Challenge on November 9 and 10.