by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $25,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on April 19 part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Last night, I invested $16 and had two winners and a place finisher.

Meet totals: 22 plays, 4 winning Pick-4’s +$132.00

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 7-10, Sunday, April 19, 2015

$1 play: 46/6/359/57= $12

Analysis:

Race 7: In a small field all the favorites look sharp. I’ll go with (4) If I Didnt Dream who has looked improved as a 4-year-old and went down the road in her latest, a style she is unfamiliar with, and was able to put away stiff challenge and hold sway pacing :57.3 final half. (6) Miriam’s Jet made two moves in last, applied pressure to top one the entire :57.3 final half and gamely held place.

Race 8: (6) Sporty Project gets away from the streaking Southern Girl who she chased from a tough spot in latest, pacing 1:24 final three-quarters making up a ton of ground but having too far to come. Two back was a good second behind the aforementioned Southern girl despite getting parked a bit early. Filly seems heading in the right direction and seems ready to break maiden.

Race 9: (5) Southern Special had steady rally against stakes company last time finishing a distant third in fast mile for this type. Colt has shown some speed and hinted at some ability when he’s stayed flat which may be all he has to do to handle an inexperienced as well as inconsistent group. (3) Bull Investor finished in :28.3 prepping for career debut. Colt has a strong pedigree, especially on the dam’s side. I’ll throw in (9) BB Whistle as well in here. Draws a tough spot but has looked better in last two and could have a shot at a price against these.

Race 10: (5) One Last Chance power brushed to the top with wicked :26.3 second quarter, bottomed out past a 1:25.1 three quarters and tired. Takes key drop and may hold on. (7) Awesome Abe was under wraps to complete the smallest Balmoral Pick-4 in recent history. The 9-year-old appears to have found best stride and figures to be tough once again.

Good Luck!