by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $25,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on Oct. 26, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 7-10, Sunday, Oct. 26, 2014

$1 play: 248/34/89/36 = $24

Analysis:

Race 7: (2) Joyful Rock takes on older foes off a powerful come from behind move that saw her make up 6-1/2 lengths from the three-quarter mark to the top of the stretch. Faces a tough task but finds a nice spot and may continue to move forward. (4) Sue’s Your Daddy took a ton of tote action shipping in from the Michigan Fair Circuit, where she raced consistently well, and didn’t disappoint, making a :56.2 brush nearing three-quarters and gamely outkicking the field late. Takes on much tougher but is interestingly pilot’s choice over the one in here. (8) Window Wiper never fired against tougher last time but beat some good mares two back from 10 hole and has paced some fast miles this year; should be a factor.

Race 8: (3) Timewell was first over against faster group at Maywood last time. Returns to Balmoral where he was a good second in first try for Phillips barn and looks primed for best. (4) Major Male was shuffled back in last after chasing a fast pace two back. The 6-year-old doesn’t win often but is capable of a wake-up mile at a price.

Race 9: In a race that may see a few lead changes, (8) Jovanna is an improving 3-year-old who has raced better when she comes from behind or from just a bit off the front runners as evidenced by two straight wins at this level. (9) Always Talking was used twice and gave way under pressure turning for home. Draws outside but may be reserved a bit early and could be following top one into the race. Consider at a price.

Race 10: (6) Star Of The Game drops off a solid placing at 35-1 last time after a no shot try from 10 hole two back in which he paced a hidden 1:23.2 final three-quarters. (3) Once A Cheater has had a series of tough trips in recent. Returns to Balmoral at best level and is leading driver’s choice. Capable of beating these.

Good luck!