by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $20,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on October 4, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 10-13, Saturday, October 4, 2014

$1 play: 159/47/34/3 = $12

Analysis:

Race 10: (5) Holy Chip was parked past a :27.3 quarter from post eight, yielded, had even pace the rest of the way lacking a late rally but did finish with an identical :27.3 final panel. (9) Life Is Good Today is usually close at this level and has speed to leave from outside draw, likely to offer value and dangerous with any kind of trip. (1/1A Willis entry) Extravagent Art/Park Lane Hotshot have both had trouble winning at this level but both are capable of big miles on best.

Race 11: (4) Timewell was claimed while in sharp form and off a good speed try. Bumps up but won at this level three back and may prove best. (7) Bell Valley Bill drops back in for a tag and has finished with sub-56 second final halves in last two. Gets leading pilot back in the bike and figures to be charging late.

Race 12: (3) Rockin Rumble was ultra-game last time parked every step of the way before getting the top past :55.2 half, faced pressure to a 1:24.4 three quarters, dug in before giving way grudgingly in huge and improved effort. The 6-year-old may be beginning to show a semblance of the form that produced a 1:49.4 mark two years ago and rates the nod. (4) Wildcat Bobby is winless on the year but showed a steady rally in same race as top one last time with addition of Hall Of Fame pilot and figures to get a good cover trip here.

Race 13: (3) Once A Cheater was uncovered off a sick scratch last time after some competitive tries against tougher at Hoosier Park. Finds a good spot to set up his brush in finale and can handle these.