by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $20,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on August 3, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 10-13, Saturday, August 3, 2013

Three out of four again on Wednesday with only loser my single in Leg 2 going off at 7-5 and unable to get the job done after a long uncovered grind. I did have the exactas tabbed in other three legs, paying $8.80, $62.40 and $43.40. Interestingly, the final exacta was formed by two sharp pacers that both won for me in their last starts. On to Saturday night.

$1 play: 256/358/23/29 = $36

Analysis:

Race 10: (2) Richess Emperor scored a nice uncovered win as our single last week against weaker. Steps up and although he’s had a tough time putting two solid miles back-to-back in the past, he has a shot here. (5) Bet On Him had strong pace, finishing in first start in more than a year. Faced Invitational company here last year and has a big shot if anywhere close to right. (6) Special Joe paced a hidden 1:21.4 final three-quarters with no shot against tougher, drops and will likely try the front at this level.

Race 11: (3) Firstclassalltheway hasn’t come close to the season he had in 2012 but was in Invitational company when last seen at Balmoral back in May and now returns off some good tries over Running Aces oval. The 6-year-old paced in 1:49.3 here last year and finds a nice spot in return to either sit close to the speed or brush. (5) Four Starzzz Z had pace finishing against better field last time after taking a lifetime mark against lesser two back. Must respect in current form. (8) St David Hanover made uncharacteristic break in latest following a strong placing from 10 hole against lesser two back and some competitive tries at this level prior. Will likely offer some value and is dangerous with the right trip.

Race 12: I’ve been chasing (2) Willow Gram for a couple of weeks now and I’ll stick with her off a fast flying finish, rallying widest of all after getting shuffled before finding room late in mid-stretch. (3) T E’s Zenyatta was overmatched in last following some competitive tries against tougher than these. Finds a good spot and should appreciate class relief tonight.

Race 13: (9) Majestic Royale made two moves from similar spot, held well for place through :27.3 final quarter. Fast pacer has been sharp at this level and may blast for better trip this time. (2) Brief’s Boy had wide trip in last, still finished in :27.1. Drops in for a tag and finds good spot for Balmoral’s “King of Saturday Night” Mike Oosting, who visited the winner’s circle on seven occasions a week ago.

Good luck!