Top pick: #1 (Entry of 1-GOLDEN STORY and 1a-BIG LUTE) (8-5) - This is an entry trained by Dave Jacobson. He has separate riders listed on each and at press time both were still running. 1a "BIG LUTE" is the better half as he has excellent gate speed and is dropping back down to the price tag of his last win. 1 "GOLDEN STORY" ships up from Gulfstream in shape and moving from turf to dirt. Very quick from the gate, we'll take him as our top pick if "Lute" scratches.
2nd pick: #6 (Blue Chips Only) (6-1) - He's moving up just a bit in price after an easy win here for a $12.5K tag in late December. A career best, he cleared the 2l condition that afternoon. Claimed that day, he has a flexible style and has room for upside.
3rd pick: #4 (Pegasus Red) (10-1) - Stretch runner has been sharp in three straight here since dropping down from the New York bred allowance ranks. He was a winner here at this tag and trip Dec. 16. Gelding should get a quick pace to rally into if the field stays intact.