Bet this race at Diamond SportsTop pick: #9 (SECRET WISHES) (5-2) - Gelding rallied to win here at this tag and trip Jan. 5th. That ran his local record to 3-1-2-0 since he came here from New Mexico in late November. That score earned him a career best 'figure,' and stalker draws outside of the front-running types. Gets a slight edge.
2nd pick: #6 (Dr Tuff) (7-2) - Hard-hitter has won 10 of 23 when racing on real dirt. Idaho bred rallied to win by a 'head' here Jan. 16th racing at this level and distance. In a winning barn (Dru Hall) and dangerous in this spot.
3rd pick: #2 (Pop Music) (3-1) - He's beaten tougher in the past, and last out here Jan. 2nd he raced both wide and evenly. Only a 1/2 length behind 'Dr Tuff' that afternoon, and 5yo gelding has a flexible running style. Must be left in the mix.
4th pick: #4 (Honour the Deputy) (10-1) - Freshened up since Dec. 8th, veteran raced both wide and evenly here at this level that day. He's still competitive at an advanced age (9yos) and was a winner here Oct. 17th when racing off a similar short break.