Top pick: #4 (DARK SOUL) - Heavily bet in his debut here on Oct. 3, he was involved in an early pace-duel, put away that rival after 3 furlongs and proceeded to draw clear by a bit over two lengths. Claimed that afternoon by Mike Pino for $16K, he brings him back six weeks later at the purchase price. Trainer wins at a 23% rate first off the claim and this colt is the horse to beat.
2nd pick: #1 (Out of Honor) - Recent maiden winner did so on this surface going 7 furlongs on Oct. 2 racing for $25K. Gelding has a speed/stalking style, the rail post, and is in one of the best barns on the grounds (Ramon Preciado). Win candidate.