by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department

Ayers Ratliff offers his picks for the $10,000 Pick-4 at Northfield Park on Dec. 19, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Northfield Park Pick-4, Races 8-11, Monday, Dec. 19, 2011

On Monday, December 19, 2011 Northfield Park will again offer a $10,000 guaranteed pool in the Pick-4. The Pick-4 has a reduced take-out rate of just 14% (the lowest in harness racing) and starts in the eighth race.

$1 Play: 159/46/123/49 = $36.00

Race 8: 1– Blueridge Tooquick – Has the rail and that could be key to him doing well in here. 5- Picasso’s Dream – One of several who have a chance in this highly competitive field. 9- Tidewater Jimmy – Should get a good trip from the second tier.

Race 9: 4– Yankee Coburn – Has been drawing terribly since coming to Cleveland; should be able to improve from here. 6- Quantum King Leo – Looks to be a rock-solid contender at this level of competition.

Race 10: 1– Action Full Hall – Stepped-up to this level last week and was third from post-eight; should do better from the rail. 2- Bella Deona – Steps-up in class but has been racing very well; her trainer is sporting a .620 average. 3- Cam’s Golden Boy – Looks like a solid contender at this level of competition.

Race 11: 4– He’s The Bomb – Had a tough first-over journey last week but finished gamely; has a shot in here. 9- Thornton Astreos – Gets the slight call over several others in here; this is a wide-open affair.