Top pick: #8 (COURTNEY RYAN) (3-1) - She tired badly after a troubled start when facing much tougher here on Dec. 29th. Veteran mare went 16-6-5-4 in 2013, and runs today at her favorite distance (14-4-5-2). Speedy sort drops, draws a nice post, and is the horse to beat.
2nd pick: #3 (Daddy's Jewel) (5-2) - Mare was only a "nose" back of "Courtney" in a stakes here on Dec. 7th, then rallied to win a 6-furlong contest just nine days ago. Stretches back out, and is a strong win candidate.
3rd pick: #6 (Repentless Lady) (6-1) - No speed type is from the same barn (Aubrey Maragh) as "Jewel," and enters in carer best form. Very strong finisher will need a pace duel for anything more than a small slice.
4th pick: #8 (La Stupenda) (4-1) - Mare has been on the sidelines since Oct. 23rd, but is working well on this surface for a new trainer (Bob Dibona), 25% with new stock. She has a nice post, and can grab a share if ready with her best.