Top pick: #8 (KOVARRO) (6-1) - He was an easy wire-to-wire maiden winner here a week ago racing for a $10K tag going 5.5-furlongs. By far a career best, he was claimed that afternoon by Mario Serey, Jr. He brings him back quickly, raises him up in class, and has him traveling an additional furlong. He draws a nice outside post and has room for upside.
2nd pick: #6 (Professor Jax) (9-2) - Very lightly raced colt has been freshened up since May 25. Son of 'Bellamy Road' is dropping down in class and finished 4th last out at Gulfstream facing tougher. A sharp half-mile breeze here June 24 suggests his readiness.
3rd pick: #7 (First Dibbs) (8-1) - Claimed in late Feb. at Tampa Bay Downs for $16K, he was brought north and given a 2 1/2 month break. Well bred 4yo has raced evenly in all three starts since returning to action. One run type draws a good post, and think he'll be competitive at a square price.
4th pick: #5 (Hope Messenger) (8-1) - He's dropping in class and shortening up in distance. Grey gelding was competitive May 10 in a dirt sprint here for a $25K tag, then ran both wide and evenly May 25 going a mile. Working fast for this, and he worked a bullet half-mile June 24. Can impact at long odds.