Top pick: #1 (MARIA LAKE) - Filly finished third when debuting in a $45K Arizona bred stakes here one month ago. She was a way a bit slowly that day so the result is better than it looks. Working fast since, she's part of a Kevin Lewis trained entry. The horse to beat.
2nd pick: #1a (Aturas ) - The second half of the Lewis entry, finished second in her debut then ran evenly in the same stakes race as her entry-mate. Home-bred by Benton Creek completes a strong entry.
3rd pick: #2 (La Tormenta Bonita) - Moves up in price after finishing second here racing weaker Nov. 23. Well-bred filly is improving and races as part of a Jeff Metz trained entry.
4th pick: #2b (Grand Dancer) - Coupled in the wagering with La Tomenta Bonita, has they have the same owner but separate trainers. Daughter of Strong Hope has a sharp work here Dec. 13 and that indicates that she has some speed.