Top pick: #1a (ROCK IT) (5-2) - He loves this surface (11-5-1-4) and has finished third in both starts at this meet after returning from a nine month layoff in late Dec. Speed/stalker looks all set.
2nd pick: #2 (Academy Run) (4-1) - Speedy sort draws the rail and will be making his Tampa Bay debut after spending his entire career in the mid-Atlantic region. Races first off a claim and a four month layoff and is a win candidate if ready.
3rd pick: #10 (Dubai Distinction) (4-1) - Nice effort last out saw him finish second to a heavy favorite who was "much the best" that afternoon. Tries hard every time out and is a threat from just off the pace.
4th pick: #4 (Gallant Lover) (3-1) - He hasn't raced since July of 2010 and was probably prepared off-site as he has no published drills showing. Very fast, has plenty of back class, and could win this or finish dead last depending on his physical condition.