Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #7 (SOUTHERN ECHO) (10-1) - Long shot was sent hard from an inside post Dec 30 and she held gamely until the final 1/16th of a mile. Only beaten just over two lengths, she moves out in the gate and that should lead to a nice stalking trip. Think she has a shot at a big price.
2nd pick: #8 (Capeaway) (9-5) - The probable favorite, she rallied to finish second here at this level going six furlongs Jan 2. It was her first start since Oct 25 and her first ever at Turf Paradise. Mare is a strong finisher and the added 1/6th of a mile is a plus. An obvious win candidate.
3rd pick: #5 (Peppermint Gal) (5-1) - Very lightly-raced 6-year-old mare has won two of four overall with each effort being local. She's racing second back from an eight month layoff, is dropping in class, and leading rider Scott Stevens stays aboard.
4th pick: #2 (Red Spring) (8-5) - Stalker has improved a great deal of late. She was an easy winner here at this tag going five furlongs to clear the 2l condition Dec 14. Moved up to this 3l level last out, mare was beaten a 'neck' in a strong follow up effort. She's stretching out 1.5-furlongs for this attempt and must be left in the mix.