Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #7 (VANCOUVER) (2-1) - Well bred 3yo set a pressured pace on a sloppy surface before weakening to finish 3rd of eight, beaten just over four lengths racing at this tag and trip at Belmont Sept. 30th. It was his first since June 26 and first of a John Parisella claim. Veteran trainer has worked him twice since, including a sharp half-mile breeze Oct. 25th.
2nd pick: #3 (Dickens) (3-1) - 4yo by 'Ghostzapper' exits the same Sept. 30th contest as 'Vancouver.' He was forced into making a very wide move on the 'off' track and he finished evenly while four lengths behind that rival. Owner/trainer Roy Lerman has worked him three times since and has him making back-to-back starts for the first time in just over a year.
3rd pick: #4 (Mischievous One) (5-1) - $130,000 purchase is racing third back off an 11-month layoff. 4yo has early speed, is switching from turf to dirt, and drops down from $40K maiden claimers to run for $20,000.
4th pick: #6 (Rambam) (6-1) - One run type has 'nibbled' several times and last out split 'Vancouver' & 'Dickens.' It was a good effort and a repeat could land him another minor award. However, he needs to do better for any shot at the top prize.