Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #5 (SHORT MEMO) (3-1) - A 12-time winner overall, old timer is working fast for his first start since late September at Northlands Park in Canada. He's nine for 14 at this distance, has back class, and won his only previous race on the local main track. Takes this if ready.
2nd pick: #8 (Bear Famous Trip) (9-2) - Another hard-hitting veteran, he's won 12 times on conventional dirt and is 11-3-2-1 locally. He rallied while very wide to finish third here at this tag and trip Dec 14. Stretch runner is dangerous in this spot.
3rd pick: #3 (Signature Event) (5-1) - Speedy sort is dropping down in class and switching from turf to dirt. Capable on the main track, the last time he ran on the dirt he finished 2nd at Lone Star Park June 20. He should be involved from gate-to-wire.
4th pick: #9 (Maggie's Guy) (4-1) - He's another going grass to dirt and he's clearly a better horse on it. Speed/stalker has back class and has gone 4-1-2-1 on the local dirt in the past.
5th pick: #6 (Bear's Accountant) (6-1) - Six-year-old won here at this tag and trip facing weaker foes Nov 23. In his follow up start Dec 14, he rallied while wide to finish fourth of nine, beaten three lengths. Can factor, but others seem more likely to win this contest.