Top pick: #10 (MIDDLEBURGH) (5-2) - Well-bred, lightly raced, and still improving, this colt was an impressive winner her facing weaker on Dec. 21. By far a career best and it came off a pair of layoffs. Four-year-old should love this longer distance and I like his chances.
2nd pick: #8 (Tattenham) (6-1) - Price play is lightly raced and is the type that can "run all day." He fits with his best and is dropping in class after competiting in three straight stakes.
3rd pick: #11 (Hothersal) (3-1) - He always comes to run, and has been sharp in three straight since returning from a long layoff in early Sept. Speed/stalker fits at the level annd should have no problem with this longer trip. Win candidate.
4th pick: #3 (State Flag) (8-1) - In the Maker barn, he's another that's "long winded" and this distance will not be an issue. Working fast locally and he could factor at a square price.