by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department
Ayers Ratliff offers his picks for the $15,000 Pick-4 at Northfield Park on April 24, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.
Northfield Park Pick-4, Races 8-11, Tuesday, April 24, 2012
On Tuesday, April 24, Northfield Park will be offering a $15,000 guaranteed pool in the Pick-4. The Pick-4 has a reduced takeout rate of just 14 percent (the lowest in harness racing) and starts in the eighth race.
$1 play: 12/156/125/256 = $54
Analysis:
Race 8: (1) Wanna Win has hit the board three consecutive weeks; looks to make it four here. (2) Ann Income. Stahl drove this one for the first time but was parked; could win in his return drive.
Race 9: (1) Bluebird Caviar was a game winner last start; faces tougher tonight but does draw the rail. (5) Stiletto leaves Pennsylvania and hopes for success in Ohio. (6) Fried By Five drops in class and looks to be the one to beat.
Race 10: (1) Nathan has a good shot to do well if he minds his manners. (2) Cousin Mikey drops in class and looks to be one of the main competitors. (5) Tooter Lane paced in 1:56 the last two times that Merriman has driven this 14-year-old; that mile should win in here.
Race 11: (2) Norma’s Rose is a classy mare taking on a couple of young up-and-comers. (5) Cody Coy was an easy winner last start; draws to the inside of #6 and gets the slight call. (6) Rose Run Nash had an impressive sophomore debut and looks to keep performing to impress.