When Theodora Babe and jockey Anne Sanguinetti edged Kendall Christine to win the final race of the 2012 Emerald Downs’ live racing season, the big whoop emanating from the 5th floor came from the toe-headed regular who prevailed in the Closing Day Handicapping Contest.

John Johnson of Lake Forest made two $100 win bets on the 17-to-10 betting favorite*a return of $540*to push his final total to $764 and capture the contest and an all expenses paid trip with entry to the 2013 National Handicapping Championship at Treasure Island Las Vegas. The trip includes airfare and hotel room.

Incidentally, the winner isn’t the same John Johnson who started at small forward for the World Champion Seattle Sonics in 1979*although this “JJ” said he did play some high school basketball for Shorecrest in the early 1980s.

Renowned handicapper Eric Schweiger finished second with $448, earning a $500 prize for his efforts. A Kent resident, Schweiger has had great success as a handicapper and owner*he co-owned 2009 Washington Horse of the Year Reba Is Tops.

Brian Eng finished third with $313.70 and Jeremy Eklund and Max Hanna rounded out the top five.

The top five finishers with prizes and contest earnings:

1st Place (All expenses paid trip to 2013 NHC at Treasure Island Las Vegas): John Johnson (Lake Forest Park) $764.

2nd Place ($500): Eric Schweiger (Kent) $448

3rd Place ($250): Brian Eng (Seattle) $313.70

4th Place ($150): Jeremy Eklund (Port Orchard) $194

5th Place ($100): Max Hanna (Auburn) $125.90