Top pick: #4 (CHOO CHOO CHARLIE) (7-2) - He's been sharp in all four starts since debuting at Canterbury in late June, and finished a pace-setting second here at this level on Oct. 8th in his first local appearance. Lightly raced, well-bred, and the horse to beat.
2nd pick: #5 (Instintcively Bold) (8-1) - Since coming off the So. California circuit last spring and joining the barn of Jon Nance, this gelding by "Kafwain" has gone 5-1-3-1. Speed/stalker exits the same last race as "Charlie," and he raced evenly while four back of that rival. Can factor in this spot.
3rd pick: #8 (Hugo Pirate) (3-1) - So. California invader broke his maiden here when debuting in early May, and has raced well several times since then facing tougher. Freshened up since Aug. 10th, gelding is working fast for a capable barn (Molly Pearson).
4th pick: #2 (Toc This Way) (5-1) - Unraced since an easy maiden win here on May 7. Owner/trainer/breeder Jacque Guerra looks like he has him well-prepared for his return. A small slice at long odds is possible.