by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $20,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on July 19 part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 10-13, Saturday, July 19, 2014

$1 play: 269/2478/910/8 = $24

Analysis:

Race 10: (9) Lennox Blue Chip paced a :53.4 middle–half on long uncovered grind against tougher. The veteran 10-year-old is long overdue, has been finishing fast and can surprise with the right trip. (6) Dabestleaderever carved out a hot pace before tiring at Hoosier last time, returns to Balmoral where he had solid pace two back finishing with :54.2 final half and is dangerous near the front or from behind. (2) Uncle Ugly disappointed last time but appears to be the best of three fast sophomores in here and has paced some quick miles over this oval.

Race 11: (2) Stamped By Design finished willingly after being used twice through quick pace. (7) Cotton Eyed Joe had steady pace closing off torrid fractions last time. Two back paced a :26.4 final quarter chasing sophomores home in stakes event. Colt seems to be heading in the right direction but will need best to handle older foes. (4) Extravagant Art disappointed last time chasing a monster mile, chance to amend here. (8) Fancy Creek Elusive is 0 for 10 on the year but appears to be on an improving pattern and faced far tougher earlier in the year.

Race 12: (9) Sleazenburgernfries comes off three strong tries against Illinois-bred Stakes Company, two in sparkling miles. Draws outside but gets in against non-winners group and may roll by late. (10) Hyd-dat Shooter may prefer the switch to the big track after making huge wide moves at Maywood in all recent starts, will likely follow the top choice and has a shot.

Race 13: (8) Furious Frank was parked from 9-hole, got the pocket and chased a sizzling pace, held place in game mile. Draws outside but appears the fastest at this level and will be tough to catch.

Good Luck!