by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department

Ayers Ratliff offers his picks for the $10,000 Pick-4 at Northfield Park on Jan. 16, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Northfield Park Pick-4, Races 8-11, Monday, Jan. 16, 2012

On Monday, January 16, Northfield Park will again offer a $10,000 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: 239/15/457/39 = $36

Analysis:

Race 8: (2) Scoot To Victory draws better tonight and looks to use his early speed to his advantage. (3) Worker C has had success here at Northfield Park in the past and could provide decent odds to the ticket. (9) He’s The Bomb. This is the first time he faces this level of competition from a decent post position.

Race 9: (1) Barchetta starts from the inside advantage and looks to be in the thick of things the entire way and still be close in the end. (5) Lucky Power was second in his first start off of a lay off; should be even better tonight and gets the job done.

Race 10: (4) Topville Diamond was parked-out last race but raced well in the weeks prior. (5) Beau Jet almost lasted last start; gets the job done tonight. (7) Ray’s Rayzer appears to be very sharp but starts from a bad post.

Race 11: (3) War Dancer starts from the best post he has had in weeks; will try to capitalize. (9) Torrington has been on a roll and is going for his fourth straight success.