by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

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

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 7-10, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2013

$1 play: 247/168/25/23 = $36

Analysis:

Race 7: (2) Little Bit Sideways was a solid winner from off the pace in local debut; remains at same level. (7) Upbyfive was used hard to get the top from eight hole, yielded and held OK to miss by less than three lengths in improved try; gets Oosting and may be of some value here. (4) Bell Valley Art has been racing in sharp form despite tough trips in recent.

Race 8: (6) Stardom Bound had excess cover fourth over from 10 hole and made a wide move off final turn after pacing :55.3 middle half and flattened out. Finds better spot and may try leaving. (1) Helen’s Place Girl lacked a rally in fast paced mile after a solid placing from eight hole two back. Gets the rail in third start for new barn and figures to be well placed. (8) Phobic Princess has had little against tougher in recent; drops and should improve at this level, a level at which she won at back in August at Maywood.

Race 9: (5) Brief’s Boy shoots for fourth straight at this level and should be riding live cover from this spot. (2) Greg And Flex had 10 hole in last after a giant overland mile from seven hole two back at Maywood, sweeping to the top past three-quarters and easily holding sway in the slop. Moves inside and looks to have the best shot at ending top one’s streak.

Race 10: (3) Catmando was claimed last time following two sharp scores at this level, tough to deny. (2) Jo Jo Spur was last at three- quarters, finished with explosive pace down the lane to finish just behind top one. Remains at reduced level and can turn the tables.