Top pick: #2 (OUR FORTRESS) (3-1) - Gelding has the best overall form of these (10-0-3-5) and all have came facing tougher. Late saw him check-in fourth of nine, beaten just over 4 lengths racing at this distance Nov. 20 in an optional-$30K claimer for maidens. Runs third off 6 1/2 month layoff and owner/trainer Dale Ray drops him into a career soft spot.
2nd pick: #4 (Artistic Venture) (9-2) - He set a quick pace and tired to finish second when racing for a $5K tag Oct. 22 in his second off 1 10 1/2 month layoff and first in a claimer. Veteran Bill Brashears claimed him that day and has him working very fast for this attempt. His early speed makes him dangerous.
3rd pick: #6 (Fenway) (7-2) - Un-raced since late May at Northlands Park, gelding was contesting a fast pace when he "jumped some shadows" and injured himself. Working nicely for an under-rated barn (Bob Diodoro) and 3-year-old must be left in the mix.