Top pick: #1 (ROBIE THE CAT) - Lightly-raced colt by "Distorted Humor" is the only member of this seven horse field that has won on this surface in the past and he did it in impressive style when breaking his maiden Dec. 12. Away for 70 days earlier this year, he finished fourth in his return start going "down the hill" at Santa Anita Mar 10 and he's working very fast since then for his second start off the layoff. Speedy runner has the inside post and is the horse to beat.
2nd pick: #4 (Diamond Geezah ) - Irish import has won two in a row, both since blinkers were added, and races today first off a claim by trainer Ted West. One-run type moves up in class, but a repeat of his last effort makes him a strong challenger.
3rd pick: #7 (Ain't No Other) - Speedy Golden Gate shipper has won four races in a row dating back to last July, and 19 days ago was an easy winner in an entry-level allowance on the synthetic surface up north. Improving with every start, trainer Steve Miyadi will race him on the grass for the first time. Very dangerous if he takes to the surface.