by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $20,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on July 17, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 7-10, Wednesday, July 17, 2013

I have enjoyed success at Balmoral over the past two seasons and now have been asked to give my picks for the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program. Hopefully I can steer you on to a few Pick-4s in the coming weeks with a modest investment. Good luck.

$1 play: 48/35/16/26 = $16

Analysis:

Race 7: A few question marks in the opening leg. I’ll try (4) Lovedancinwithyou who broke early and then past the quarter in third try for the Wilfongs. Gelding never got close but did pace a respectable :55.1 middle half following an effort that saw him finish with :55.1 final half in decent closing try. Gets a nice spot in a field lacking any standouts and could be the one to roll by late. My other question mark is the (8) El Shooter who has missed a couple of weeks after racing well despite tough trips. Draws outside but could go well off decent qualifier.

Race 8: This looks like a two-horse battle between (3) Van Donk who just failed to hold on when dropped to this level at 1-2 and seems capable of making amends and (5) Fox Valley Andy who rallied steadily from eight hole last time after a game placing two back.

Race 9: (1) Rubys And Pearls drops out of fast mile, gets the rail against weaker and key driver switch and is one of two I’ll use in Leg 3. The dangerous horse in here has to be (6) Recollection who was a bit short in return following two good speed qualifiers; 4-year-old faced far tougher last year and should be tighter tonight.

Race 10: (2) Zambrano wheels back off three days rest following a tough uncovered trip, takes key drop and can brush past these. (6) Ive Got The Key had wide trip from tough spot following some solid tries at this level. Remains sharp and must be included.