Top pick: #4 (NORTH OCEAN) (6-5) - The probable favorite, he has the best form, the highest "figures" and a flexible running style. When last in action here on Dec. 14, he just failed facing a bit weaker, and the winner that day ("Zivo") has a lot of talent. Much the horse to beat.
2nd pick: #1 (Box Office) (12-1) - Longshot has the rail, some early speed, and is from a very good barn (Jay Servis). He won here 14 months ago and believe he'll be sent hard early in an attempt to clear off.
3rd pick: #3 (Pontus) (5-1) - Lightly-raced (12-2-3-1) gelding ran second here for a $35K tag on Dec. 28 and was claimed that afternoon by Bruce Brown. FOur-year-old was 5 1/2 back of "North Ocean" in his previous start and should run better in this spot.