Emerald Downs will present a series of four handicapping contests this winter.

So if your New Year’s resolution is to sharpen your handicapping skills, this will be a great opportunity to strut your stuff and perhaps win some money, too.

The first such event – Win Place Snow Handicapping Contest – is Saturday, Jan. 5, with full cards from Santa Anita Park and Golden Gate Fields.

Subsequent contests are scheduled Saturdays, Feb. 2 and March 30.

The top 10 contestants advance to the finals on Sunday, April 28.

First-place in the finals earns a trip to the 2014 National Handicapping Championship in Las Vegas, Nev.

Entry is $100 ($10 entry fee, $90 bankroll) with a maximum of four entries per person.

All proceeds are returned to the winners.

Registration is 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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Win Place Show Handicapping Contest, Jan. 5

Format:

• Live money
• Minimum 10 races, no maximum
• Minimum $10 per race, no maximum
• Win, place, show wagers
• Must wager on one horse per race
• Tracks: Santa Anita (12:30 p.m. first post), Golden Gate (12:40 p.m.)
• Must be 18 years of age or older by Jan. 5 to participate.

For complete list of rules please see www.emeralddowns.com.