Top pick: #5 (THUYA) - Gelding by "Flower Alley" finished an even fourth last out facing slightly tougher in his first start since debuting in late October at Belmont park. Runs first off a Chris Richard claim (a 33% winning angle) and he brings him back quickly and under the purchase price. Much the horse to beat.
2nd pick: #2 (Pain Tolerance) - Gelding by "Johannesburg" just missed last out in the slop and it came first off a Don Roberson claim. Three-year-old has a flexible style and a repeat of his recent effort makes him dangerous.
3rd pick: #8 (Fraught With Danger) - Lightly-raced gelding ran evenly last out at Fairmont Park sprinting facing special weights and trainer John Cox will drop him down and stretch him out. Three-year-old will show whatever he has in this spot.