Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #8 (RASMUS) (3-1) - A lightly raced gelding by 'Slew's Tiznow,' he tired after pressing the pace facing 'open' company allowance foes on Aug. 18. Only his third start, it was his second back after spending 14 months on the sidelines. He draws a good post, is back in with fellow state-breds, and gets top billing.
2nd pick: #1 (Staycation) (7-2) - He was a gate-to-wire maiden winner by just over three lengths at this distance Aug. 6 facing $7500 state bred claimers. Bet down to 3-2 favoritism in a large field, it was only his second start. A home bred by 'Stay Thirsty,' he's from a good barn (Chris Richard), has the rail, and should factor right back.
3rd pick: #2 (Sioux Valley) (6-1) - A 4yo stalker by 'Colonel John', he's been competitive in two of three since coming off a nine and-a-half month layoff June 30. A bit subpar last out, that broke a string of seven straight competitive efforts. In the mix.