by “Catskill” Steve Terjanian

Catskill Steve offers his picks for the $25,000 Pick-4 at Balmoral Park on Sept. 28, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Balmoral Park Pick-4, Races 7-10, Sunday, Sept. 28, 2014

$1 play: 368/578/6/45 = $18

Analysis:

Race 7: (3) Fox Valley Amanda has been consistent, chasing top Midwest fillies through fast miles much of the year, gets a nice spot and may be set to handle older foes tonight. (8) Kesons Allure changed tactics last time, blasting to the top from nine-hole past a :27.3 opening panel, then was used again pacing identical :27.3 second quarter; held until mid stretch before giving way grudgingly. Is likely to be reserved from off the pace, her best racing style, and will likely be charging late. (6) The Sleazy Princess renews her rivalry with top one, a rivalry that has seen her win in two of their last three meetings but needing a ground saving trip in both. Gives up position edge tonight but is hard to dismiss.

Race 8: Tough race. (8) Sunset Dreamer won for me last time leaving for position, saving ground throughout the mile and charging home in :27.3 to beat some of these. Is the choice to repeat despite a likely more difficult trip in store. (5) Wildartiscape moves inside off a giant mile from 10-hole. (7) Always Jimmy Ray may have disliked the slop at Maywood last time, returns off a sick scratch, gets key driver switch and has logged some big miles at Balmoral this year. Price factor here.

Race 9: I’ll stick with (6) Lady Laker who broke early last time after finishing with strong late trot two back despite a tough overland trip. Mare has plenty of ability, which she has yet to show since shipping to Balmoral, and is more than capable of trotting by these if she can mind her manners.

Race 10: (4) Odds On Rolomite comes off another sharp try in first start at this level. Switches barns and picks up leading driver. (5) Sisters Keeper had an impossible fourth over trip from eight-hole at Maywood last time following a monster parked the mile win two back. Returns to Balmoral, site of her lifetime best mile back in June, and seems to have improved a bit since that mile.

Good luck!