by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department

Ayers Ratliff offers his picks for the $10,000 Pick-4 at Northfield Park on Oct. 17, part of the USTA Strategic Wagering Program.

Northfield Park Pick-4, Races 8-11, Monday, Oct. 17, 2011

On Monday, Oct. 17, Northfield Park is again offering 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.

Last Monday’s $27.00 posted ticket went four-for-four and hit for $111.70. You have to pick what you like, even if it will not pay a lot, because cashing a modest ticket is better than cashing no ticket while trying to chase the longshots. Good luck!

$1 play: 35/134/128/38 = $36

Race 8: (3) Desired Entry was a winner of this class in both of his last two starts; could make it three in a-row tonight. (5) Nukes Flash has completed the perfecta behind #3 for two straight weeks, could step-up tonight.

Race 9: (1) North’s Chester drops in class and has the rail. (3) Trytopass Sam is the top pick but is in a very competitive field and could get beat. (4) Thomas Be Quick is another strong contender.

Race 10: (1) Carolina Song is a legitimate contender in this group, especially from the rail. (2) Brother Of Another’s lines look very good, but has not raced in about five weeks. (8) Makybe Diva has won both of her last two races, jumps up in class and has the outside post.

Race 11: (3) JD’s Turismo looks to be the leader, not sure how long he can hold it, he has not been racing in top form, but could step it up at any time. (8) MM’s Shocking Guy has his work cut out for him from post eight, but could still get the job done.