Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #6 (BACKINTHEACADEMY) (7-2) - Older mare cuts back a bit after finishing 2nd at this level here going 8.5 furlongs on a sloppy track Nov. 1. Since coming from the So. California circuit and moving to the barn of Norm McKnight, she's gone 3-2-1-0 on the dirt and gets top billing.
2nd pick: #7 (Color Me Pretty) (4-1) - Since a poor effort in her debut in late August of 2017 this filly has gone 11-5-4-2. Four of those wins have come on the grass, but she's capable on the dirt, draws an advantageous outside post at this one turn mile, and I like that Ricardo Santana, Jr. is aboard.
3rd pick: #1 (Council Rules) (3-1) - Speed/stalker tired late to finish a close up 4th at this level going seven furlongs Oct. 7 at Keeneland. In her previous start at Indiana Downs, this mare was only a length behind 'Backintheacademy,' and she should factor today from her inside draw.
4th pick: #5 (Awesome Gal) (5-1) - Strong finisher rallied to finish a distant 3rd facing much tougher Oct. 21 at Keeneland. 4yo has been competitive in three straight on the dirt at this $10K starter-allowance condition and is a stretch threat in this one.