Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #2 (CROSS BORDER) (3-1) - This veteran speed/stalker is one of two entered by Mike Maker, and the pair race uncoupled. In career-best form, he was an impressive winner here going a mile in a stakes for fellow state-breds July 22. That ran his local record to a perfect four for four, and I think he can win again on this 10-day turnaround despite moving way up in class.
2nd pick: #5 (Channel Maker) (7-2) - This hard-hitter has banked a bit over $2M, and he missed by just under a length in this stakes last year. 6yo has more early speed than most, has won twice in the past at this demanding 11-furlong distance, and is a win candidate.
3rd pick: #6 (Sadler's Joy) (2-1) - This old-timer has won more than $2.5M, all on the turf. A multiple G1 winner, he can 'run all day,' and has done well at the Spa over the years (8-2-1-2). A fast and/or contested pace would help his stretch running style out.