Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #9 (JADES KELLY) (7-2) - Filly tired late after setting a pressured pace debuting Sept. 12 going 6.5 furlongs on the undulating turf at Kentucky Downs. Three horses came out of that contest to break their maidens next out and his $190K purchase enters off a bullet 5 furlong breeze at the Palm Meadows Center Dec. 8. Trainer Wesley Ward wins at a 24% rate second-time out and at a 20% clip off of long layoffs. I give this daughter of 'Lea' a slight edge.
2nd pick: #6 (Bibiana) (4-1) - Daughter of 'Stay Thirsty' moves to the grass after showing good early speed in a pair on the dirt. She finished second here going 5.5 furlongs Sept. 28, then checked in a distant 4th at 7 furlongs Nov. 16 at Churchill Downs. In a claimer for the first time and I think she's a major player.
3rd pick: #2 (La Cara Bonita) (2-1) - She's finished second in both starts, each at this level and distance on the grass. Home bred has shown versatility in that pair, draws well, and is an obvious contender at a short price.
4th pick: #3 (Mane Attraction) (20-1) - She rallied while wide to finish 5th of 8, beaten by 3.5 lengths at this level and distance Nov. 10. It was an encouraging effort and this home bred by 'Munnings' is capable of getting a minor award at a big price.