Top pick: #4 (ARCH TRAVELER) - $260,000 colt by Sky Mesa finished a troubled second when debuting at Aqueduct Dec 11 and has been training very fast at Palm Meadows since coming to Florida soon after that effort. Races for a good barn (Jim Jerkens) and one that's always much better second time out. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #7 (Ivy Connection) - Son of "Forestry" has finished second in his last two starts both on the Keeneland "poly." Has plenty of early speed and is another who's working fast at Palm Meadows since coming to Florida. Colt races back on real dirt today and is a win candidate if he brings his Keeneland form with him.
3rd pick: #6 (Break Up The Game) - Just missed at big odds when debuting at this distance at Aqueduct Nov. 13. Very patient trainer (Shug McGaughey) rarely has them ready early in their careers but this runner looks like an exception. Training frequently on the local strip and you already know that he can handle this trip. Threat if ready.