Hambletonian Final: 17 trotters bid for 10 spots

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) -- Top contender Ken Warkentin was among 17 3-year-old trotters entered for elimination heats at the Meadowlands on Saturday, with the first five finishers in each of two races qualifying for the $1.5 million Hambletonian a week later.

Ken Warkentin, a winner in 10 of 12 career starts, heads one heat, while Classic Photo is the horse to beat in the second. Both races carry purses of $100,000.

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Ken Warkentin, the 2004 2-year-old trotting colt of the year, drew the No. 6 post in a field of eight on Tuesday, with David Miller listed to drive. Named for the Meadowlands' track announcer, Ken Warkentin won an open event for sophomore trotters in his last start.

Classic Photo has won two major preps for the Hambletonian, the Stanley Dancer Trot at the Meadowlands and the Goodtimes at Woodbine. Classic Photo drew the No. 9 post in a field of nine, with Ron Pierce listed to drive.

The Hambletonian is harness racing's top trotting event.

The field for the first heat is Mr Dream OM, Gettindownanddirty, Vivid Photo, Southfork, Ken Warkentin, Clearaway, Self Professed and Strong Yankee.

The field for the second heat is Vino Camielle, Northern Ensign, Celebrity Master, New York Yank, Racino, Muscle Bound, Worship, Muscle Memory and Classic Photo.

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