Top pick: #1 (WINITBACK) - Speedy gelding raced a bit "greenly" last out in his first race in 4 1/2 months. He still finished a fine third that day in a race he probably needed badly. He has a very fast work on Dec. 29, and he draws the rail. Wire-to-wire threat to win this.
2nd pick: #7 (Geno Green) - Gelded son of "Lion Heart" showed good speed in a MSW race at Laurel before tiring late in his first start for the Scott Lake barn. Drops in for a tag and has a sharp work on Jan. 3.
3rd pick: #9 (Wild Conga) - Chased the pace last out, bid, and continued on gamely for the place. Has a pair of sharp works since and is a threat.