by Ayers Ratliff, Northfield Park Publicity Department

Ayers Ratliff offers his picks for the $10,000 Pick-4 at Northfield Park on Jan. 17, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.

Northfield Park Pick-4, Races 8-11, Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2012

On Tuesday, January 17, Northfield Park is again offering a $10,000 guaranteed Pick-4 pool. Northfield Park’s Pick-4 starts in race eight and offers a 14 percent takeout rate (the lowest in harness racing).

$1 play: 123/157/149/12 = $54

Analysis:

Race 8: (1) Dawn Of Trey exits claimers and enters conditions; draws the rail and could flourish against her new competition. (2) Futuresobright comes to Cleveland and looks to do well. (3) Koko In Flight has as good of a shot as any to complete the trifecta.

Race 9: (1) Modern Eve. This is her first legitimate shot to do well since being introduced to lasix. (5) Hippie Cruiser. Tyler Smith returns to the bike and the horse draws much better than last week. (7) Steuben Stampede. Lasix seemed to help this one last time; makes a second start on lasix tonight.

Race 10: (1) Irish Big Guy raced well from post seven; rises in class but could still be dangerous from the pole. (4) Capricious Art exits claimers and enters conditions; draws the four hole and could flourish against his new competition. (9) Kollateral Damage starts from the second tier and should get a good trip.

Race 11: (1) Classy Rocket had her win streak snapped when she entered this class, but is still sharp. (2) Columbia Art appears to be on a roll; goes for his fourth straight success.