Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #3 (PROUD AS PUNCH) (8-5) - Note: This race has been taken 'off the turf' and switched to the main track at the same mile distance. The probable favorite, he's finished 3rd in his first pair on the grass and is on the dirt for the first time. He's had problems at the gate in both but should beat this greatly reduced field.
2nd pick: #4 (Fed Fever) (5-1) - NEW gelding has the best early speed and it's noted he's taken serious betting action in all three starts. He sold for $280,000 this past May as a 2yo in training and I like the fact that John Velazquez is aboard today. A win candidate.
3rd pick: #11 (Highway Fever) (7-2) - Debuting son of 'Quality Road' was originally prepared in New York but has been training on the deep surface at Payson Park since Nov 1. Juddmonte home bred breezed a near bullet half-mile on the deep surface there Dec 16 and can factor if ready.