Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #8 (SHACKLEFORD COUNTY) (3-1) - Well-backed when debuting at Churchill Downs facing tougher Sept. 23 she caught a sloppy surface and tired badly after setting a pressured pace. Trainer Dale Romans (16% second time out) drops her into a claimer and she should be much sharper in this spot.
2nd pick: #2 (Riesling) (5-2) - Stalker chased the pace and held to finish second of nine, losing by just over 3 lengths here for a $30,000 price tag Oct. 5. A career best overall, it was her third back when following a long layoff and first ever in a claimer. Filly breaks just off the rail and is a threat despite moving up to run for a $50K tag.
3rd pick: #6 (Catkins) (2-1) - The morning line and probable favorite, she's moving from turf to dirt while dropping back down in class. Competitive in five straight when facing tougher, $100K purchase finished second here April 12 in her only previous start in a claimer. An obvious contender.