by Frank Cotolo

Frank Cotolo offers his picks for the $25,000 Pick 4 at Balmoral Park on July 17, part of the USTA Strategic Wagering program.

Balmoral Park Pick 4, Races 7-10, Sunday, July 17, 2011

Last Sunday our third-leg single, Majestic Royale won and paid $27.80. The closest we came elsewhere was a second in the second leg, with two others finishing fifth. Another small ticket is presented as our campaign continues. We will not alter our strategy, we will demand our contenders win at prices that inflate the payoff and should it be ours become one of the only, if not the only, winner.

$2 play: 2/8 10/1 10/5 = $8

Analysis:

Race 7: (2) Rhythm And Rage has three good races in as many starts and they take her here where she must be respected against the obvious public choices.

Race 8: From the outside, (8) Leanmean Normajean has to rid herself of hanging, since that is what has stopped her from better finishes recently. One smooth journey and she may open up wildly. (10) Mackenzie’s Power recorded his last win at this level. He was a beaten choice last time and held well in a long overland trip.

Race 9: (1) Fraher Hill Gold was caught on the lead but did not quit. Staying in this condition after stepping up is a positive sign and the rail may do the trick here. (10) Porque needed his last race and did well to help revive a few classy outings. She could be the best here and the outside start could help the odds.

Race 10: (5) Miss Pat Weisar is improving with every start. She has won here before doing well in a fair race of a higher class. She doesn’t start well but chews up ground from the half with ease and may soar again to win on harness racing’s longest stretch.