Top pick: #1 (ASPIRE) - He was amongst the leaders of his division last year and is only one of two entered with experience (and a win) on this surface. He had a fine seasonal debut at Churchill following a long layoff and has a sharp work here on July 18. One-run type catches a field with several speed types and that helps his style. The top selection.
2nd pick: #5 (Bonavento) - The other entrant with a win here and he also recently had a useful return off a long layoff. Speedy son of "Speightstown" tired late in his return and should be much sharper in his second off the bench. Win candidate.
3rd pick: #6 (Bimini) - Price-play draws outside of the speed and has already proven that he can compete at this level. Distance is fine and his conservative trainer ("Shug" McGaughey) adds blinkers, something he rarely does. Stretch factor.