Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #5 (JOHNNY FOOTBALL) (4-1) - Speed/stalker tired badly here racing at this level and distance Oct. 31st. It was his first off almost an eight-week break and second consecutive poor effort. In very good form prior to that pair at Canterbury Downs, he's working sharply locally for this attempt. I like his chances.
2nd pick: #8 (I Rock the Party) (7-5) - The morning line favorite, He won here at this tag and trip Nov. 11th as he cleared the 2l condition. Strong finisher missed by a 'nose' Dec. 1st in his first at this 3l level. Most all of his best races are local (12-2-5-1), and 4yo is an obvious win candidate.
3rd pick: #4 (Double Nickel) (5-2) - He has more early speed than most, and last out he held to check in 3rd after setting a pressured pace. Arizona bred was only 1 1/2 lengths behind 'I Rock the Party' that day and is back in shape following a two-month break.
4th pick: #2 (Smart Masterpiece) (15-1) - His lack of early speed hurts his chances every time out. Longshot may grab a minor award at a big price, but believe that's his ceiling this afternoon.