Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #2 (GOLD FOR THE KING) (8-5) - He's moving back in with fellow New York breds after missing by just under a length going 6 furlongs here facing 'open' company in the Gravesend Stakes (G3) Dec. 23. This home bred 5yo won his previous start facing state bred by almost 10 lengths here at this distance Nov. 18 and gets a slight edge.
2nd pick: #9 (Honor Up) (9-2) - He's from a hot barn (Michelle Nevin) and enters off a first-level allowance win here facing 'open' company going 6.5 furlongs Dec. 15. He's been in career best form since switching trainers following the Saratoga meet and stalker draws a fine outside post for this distance. He's a strong win candidate.
3rd pick: #6 (Celtic Chaos) (5-1) - His lack of speed is apparent, but this strong finisher almost always makes a late charge. He enters off a wide 4th place finish here facing 'open' company in a G3 stakes Nov. 22, but was just under a length in back of 'Gold for the King' in his previous start.