by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $25,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on July 20 part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 7-10, Sunday, July 20, 2014

$1 play: 269/27/1258/8= $24

Analysis:

Race 7: (2) Kesons Allure mare is at career peak taking a lifetime best against weaker two back then pacing a 1:23.1 final three quarters rallying for show at this level. (6) Fox Valley Absolut had pace on both ends from 9-hole against tougher. The 8-year-old drops, gets better post and has a class edge on these. (9) Schmatie had no shot in quick Hoosier mile last time but has been competitive against tougher most of the year and is Leonard’s choice over a couple in here. Chance at a price despite outside post.

Race 8: (2) Viper Blue Chip was in tough at Pocono in recent. Returns to Balmoral where he’s raced well at in the past and should be tough at this level. I’m still waiting for (7) Powerful Poe to pull out all the stops and leave the gate. Hasn’t lived up to expectations as a 4-year-old but when and if he does it may be lights out for the field he’s facing. Add the fact that Magee chooses him over the 1 & 2 in here and I’ll have to use him on my ticket again.

Race 9: Very tough race and I’ll have to go four deep. (1) Svaya Knows moves into new barn and gets the rail off two uncovered trips which followed a lifetime best three back. (2) Conzo appears the sharpest and comes off a perfect trip last time getting up in a lifetime best. (5) Im A Dan Fool rallied steadily from 9-hole after making an early break two back. The 4-year-old doesn’t win often but has some ability and is a major player from better spot. (8) Wildartiscape was out early on prolonged first over move, paced a torrid :54 middle half and held determinedly.

Race 10: (8) I’m Real Good makes third start for new barn off an improved try from 9-hole in fast mile. Doesn’t win often but may be coming around and has speed to leave for a trip.

Good Luck!