Top pick: #1 (REBEL RAIDER) - Midwest shipper has raced evenly in his last pair following a 7 1/2 month layoff and finished second here two years ago in his only previous local effort. Has the rail, is in a good barn (Bill Connelly), and grey gelding by "Monarchos" looks set for a big race. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #5 (Red Hot Humor) - Speed/stalker finished second at this level on Sept. 18 and that ran his local record to (9-1-4-2). In career best shape and 3-year-old by "Sharp Humor" will be involved from start to finish.
3rd pick: #2 (Noequal) - Very consistent Michigan-bred was an impressive winner here to get his second lifetime win Sept. 13, and take the next logical step up the ladder. Likes this surface, has a flexible style, and is a win candidate.