by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department

Ayers Ratliff offers his picks for the $10,000 Pick-4 at Northfield Park on Dec. 21, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Northfield Park Pick-4, Races 8-11, Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2011

On Wednesday (Dec. 21), 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: 234/4/149/3 = $9

Analysis:

Race 8: (2) Intrepid Orion has been racing well at this level of competition; Noble stays with this one. (3) Names Fame has won two of his last three races and is a legitimate contender here, too. (4) Pandora’s Gambit N has won two of his last four races; tries to make it three of five tonight.

Race 9: (4) Hogue’s Rockie returns to Cleveland and looks for a win.

Race 10: (1) Point Standing has really been improving; draws the rail and looks to be a major player. (4) Lenny Bromac N dropped to this level last week and almost lasted; looks to be able to hang on tonight. (9) Bobbys On The Move should get a good trip from the second tier.

Race 11: (3) Aliquippa drops in class and looks to pick up the win.