(# 6) BRITISH COLUMBIA - Colt improved noticeably when sent long for the first time. Recent purchase by the Darley Stable for $450,000 was beaten in last by his entrymate. He's worked fast and frequently since, and he looks primed for a big effort.

(# 1a) Mr. Shortcake - Ran a big race in his distance debut from a poor post (11). Stayed close, bid, and finished well, as he has in most of his races. Draws a poor slot again today, but he has already shown that he can overcome it.

(# 4) Buddy's Holiday - Closed late in his debut sprinting on Nov. 22nd, making up 6 lengths in the last 1/8th. Stretches out off the debut run and trainer Bruce Levine adds lasix today.

(# 1) Spurrier - Coupled with the second pick, he has shown enough in his pair of appearances to warrant a chance in this mostly lightly raced field.