Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #1 (RYMSKA) (5-2) - This hard hitting mare ships from Keeneland where she finished 2nd in a G1 going 8.5 furlongs April 13. Stretch runner has gone 3-2-1-0 at this distance in the past, has a ground saving post today, and regular rider Irad Ortiz, Jr. is in for the mount.
2nd pick: #4 (Vasilika) (8-5) - She's won 11 of her last 12, with six of her last seven coming in 'Graded' stakes. The mare is 10 of 11 on the local grass and five for seven at this demanding nine-furlong trip in the past. An obvious win candidate at a short price, I could have easily made her the top selection.
3rd pick: #2 (Ollie's Candy) (4-1) - A lightly raced 4yo, she's gone 5-3-2-0 overall and has finished 2nd in both starts on the grass. Away since Aug. 18, she's training well, but this filly gives away a lot of experience to both 'Rymska' and 'Vasilika.' I believe a minor award is her ceiling.
4th pick: #8 (Causeforcommotion) (8-1) - This tremendously improved mare became a stakes winner when she won a G3 here at this distance May 11. 5yo has gone 4-1-2-0 at this trip, is in career best form, and is capable of getting a share of this at a big price.