by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $25,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on August 23 part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Last night, I invested $16 and had three winners.

Meet totals: 54 plays, ten winning Pick-4’s +$152.80

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 7-10, Sunday, August 23, 2015

$1 play: 89/6710/18/89= $24

Analysis:

Race 7: (8) Doc’s Deal has been racing consistently well at this level and can leave for a trip as he has in a number of recent starts. (9) Rex Passus returns to best track off a dull try at Maywood. Draws tough slot but is familiar with outside posts and will likely be charging late.

Race 8: Can’t have a world of confidence in (7) Mayfair Sophie having made breaks in three of her last four but she’s a fast mare who showed good speed against far tougher two back and torched her qualifying field three back when she went 1:57, just three fifths of a second off her career best. (10) Persuasive Look draws a tough spot but has been racing well against Illinois-bred sophomores in stakes events and looks to have a big shot at overcoming the 10-hole. (6) Show Stoppin Monkey is 12 for 30 lifetime, ships in after trotting some fast miles at Springfield in State Fair events and is another with keen early speed.

Race 9: (1) Camwiser held sway at this level two back defeating pacer who came back to win next start, is “Double Oo’s” choice over three others in here and, although not the most consistent pacer on the grounds, looks best. (8) Jo Jo Spur may be rounding into form off three tough uncovered tries; the 7-year-old backs a solid late wallop and will likely be riding live cover here. Chance at a price.

Race 10: (8) Rocknroll Crystal was used hard to get the top, chased a fast third-quarter and gave way late. Filly has a sharp brush when timed right and may actually be better off from outside post. (9) Bust My Chops hasn’t been able to beat this level in recent starts but has come close. The 5-year-old mare has tactical speed and figures to leave for a trip against field that has trouble winning.

Good Luck!