by ‘Catskill’ Steve Terjanian
‘Catskill’ Steve Terjanian offers his picks for the $25,000 Pick-4 at Yonkers Raceway on August 14, part of the U.S. Trotting Association Strategic Wagering Program.
Yonkers Raceway Pick-4, Races 7-10, Tuesday, August 14, 2012
$1 play: 23/24/345/38 = $24
Analysis:
Race 7: Once again looks like any of four-five entrants could take opener. I’ll try (2) Northern Prize who has raced gamely despite tough trips in all three Yonkers starts and (3) Connery Blue Chip who shaved three seconds off lifetime mark with strong uncovered win in first start for new barn and first off 2-1/2 months on the bench. Steps up and don’t know if he’s good enough to handle the upgrade but do know he has the speed to go with these off that last mile.
Race 8: The consistent (2) Sectionlinecruiser who had steady rally last time after chasing a 1:53.4 mile from the pocket two back and (4) Lislea Miles who went a much improved mile from decent post last time after pacing a :55.3 final half from dead last two back, making up a ton of ground from eight hole with no real shot, are the choices here. The latter has a class edge on this field and appears to be coming around.
Race 9: (3) Back To The West moves back into the powerful Erv Miller stable after chasing tougher in Pa. Stallion Sire event at The Meadows. Youngster lacks small track experience but seems to be moving forward and has twice paced in under 1:52 at Pocono. (4) Sir Jack has had a series of tough posts in recent after beating up lesser in previous Yonkers starts. Will likely be gunning for Bartlett who hops aboard for the first time. (5) Southwind Chase paced a big final half, rallying to miss by a neck. Consistent sort is tough on or from off the pace.
Race 10: Fast 10-year-old (3) Real Mystical has erratic tendencies at times but when on his game is simply faster than these. Hopefully brings his A-game tonight. If he fails I’ll back up with (8) All Tricked Out who tries tougher and gets eight hole after being claimed by 23 percent barn. Note his last loss was from eight hole which is sandwiched in between two strong wire-to-wire scores from the rail, one in 1:53 and his latest a 1:53.4 tour of The Hilltop Oval. Will likely gun for a trip.
Good luck.