Top pick: #7 (SOUTHERN SUNSHINE) (4-1) - She was the beaten favorite here racing for a $40K tag on Dec. 14th. Daughter of 'High Cotton' was beaten a 1/2 length for the place spot by a filly who impressed next out when getting her maiden win. Claimed that afternoon by Rich Schosberg, he's freshened her up after she raced a dozen times in 7-months. Stalker has been competitive against tougher fields than this in the past and can take this if ready with her best.
2nd pick: #8 (Stonely Heart) (5-2) - Home bred missed by a 'nose' here at this level and distance Dec. 27th. Speed/stalker is working steadily for her first in just over two months and is a strong win candidate.
3rd pick: #6 (Shotgun Love) (2-1) - The 'morning line' favorite, she debuted in the same last race as 'Stonely.' Daughter of 'Posse' broke on top, set a solid pace, and held gamely to finish third, only a 1/2 length back of that common rival. She should be involved from start-to-finish.
4th pick: #2 (Agate) (8-1) - Grey filly has finished a distant second in two straight starts. She has some early speed and is breaking just off the rail. Her 'figures' aren't that far off the other selections, and she's racing back into shape following almost a 7-month layoff.