by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $25,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on Dec. 21, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 7-10, Sunday, Dec. 21, 2014

$1 play: 579/18/29/48 = $24

Analysis:

Race 7: (7) Rock N Kilo was used hard getting the top from 10 hole, chased :28.3 third quarter and tired. Moves back into Roberts barn where she raced well in early autumn and reunites with Oosting who steered the pacer to a lifetime best back in November. (5) Princess Joventina paced a :56.4 final half rallying past similar. The 4-year-old continues to race in sharp form and finds a good spot to set up her brush. (9) Odds On Rolomite has had tough trips in a number of recent starts. Draws tough slot but is capable of upsetting with some better racing luck and best effort.

Race 8: (1) Kimberley R has chased the sharp Window Wiper in last two, the latest a game uncovered effort holding show through :57.1 final half. Meets no such foes tonight and looks tough from the pole. (8) Melodie Hotspur went down the road, was used parking top one most of that fast final half and gave way grudgingly.

Race 9: (2) Enchantress Lady seems to be rounding into the form she displayed winning four of her first five starts earlier in the year. Finds a good spot to use her brush and can take another. (9) Powerful Commander trotted a fast middle half and finished evenly from similar spot in first start since summer. The 4-year-old was overpowering in return qualifier prior and may be sitting on big mile at a price.

Race 10: (4) Parked Onda Street finished strong in fast paced mile, edge in wide open event. (8) Russell L may have moved too soon last time, pacing :56 middle half to reach the top before three-quarters, only to weaken late. The 11-year-old continues to race well and packs a strong brush as he has demonstrated in a number of recent starts. Dangerous against these with a better timed move.

Happy Holidays to all!

Good luck!