by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department
Ayers Ratliff offers his picks for the $10,000 Pick-4 at Northfield Park on Dec. 27, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program. Northfield Park Pick-4, Races 8-11, Tuesday, Dec. 27, 2011 On Tuesday, Dec. 27, Northfield Park will again offer a $10,000 guaranteed pool in the Pick-4. The Pick-4 has a reduced takeout rate of just 14 percent (the lowest in harness racing) and starts in the eighth race. $1 play: 13/125/169/3 = $18 Analysis: Race 8: (1) Halter Top Hanover has been the runner-up for two weeks in a row; could step up for the win tonight. (3) Paris H responded well to Aaron last week; should do well again here. Race 9: (5) Kirklands Hanover improved last week and finished second; could win tonight if he maintains his new found form. (1) Streakin Bout Town draws the rail again; that could be key in him doing well tonight. (2) Cole’s Image drops in class from his last race and has a big shot tonight. Race 10: (1) Spidermonkey gets a huge post position improvement and class relief to boot. (6) Koko In Flight does not start from a good post but still has a chance to be there. (9) Terror Of The Track comes back down to the level where he rattled off two wins in a row. Race 11: (3) Classy Rocket gets her third win in a row.