Sunday, September 4, 2011

Tough ticket in the Guaranteed $25,000 Pick 4 at Balmoral

Last night we had a near miss on a $597.70 Pick 4. We started in good shape with Cole Snap winning Race 10 and then Matt Out Flying solos the 11th. Where we got derailed was in Race 12, when Bring The Rain snuck in and won it. My three selections finished second through fourth, close but no cigar. The last race was a nice ending, as all three choices did indeed come in 1-2-3 and close out a nice Trifecta for $111.60. Our balance is now down to $84.00.

Tonight is the $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 and it is one tough group of races. The first race, #7 is highly contentious and we could be done before the night even get’s started. We will buy a $24 ticket but in truth we could spend a lot more and still feel vulnerable.

Race 7 #3 Jackson Berlow ML 4/1 #4 Major Male ML 7/2 # Drive’em Cowboy ML 3/1

The major threat to this group are two horses is #1 Fox Valley Saint and #2 Fox Valley Libero but in the end I’m going with Jackson Berlow moving up in class with Miller in the buggy. He won last out with nice consistent figures and real improvement in final times. In the last three races, he has won twice with Miller driving, I lean to recent winners moving up in class.

Race 8 #2 Odds On Moinet ML 7/2 #4 Joinusforsomefun ML 4/1 #9 Ole Miss ML 6/1

I’m staying with Odds On Moinet again, really nice speed pairs of 83-82-83-82 and last out the post really hurt her. Class and speed are tops of this group and yes, A Night To Remember is back in again and blew our card up last weekend, but the #2 is ready to win.

Race 9 #9 Lookin’ Ahead ML 7/2

This 6YO gelding is rounding into form and is set up to take the purse tonight. Excellent class and speed ratings, closed down strongly from way back last week and the Wilfongs have a nice ROI together. Detailer is a threat and an improving Clapton Blue Chip could set up and take it. Overall, Lookin’ Ahead is the one to beat.

Race 10 #1 Mearl Finn ML 8/1 #4 Fox Valley Oracle ML 8/1 #7 Dee Dee Sage ML 4/1

Several familiar faces in this race and many I like but finally landed on #7 Dee Dee Sage at 4/1. Has been improving with each race, and has the speed and class to beat this group. She likes to race up close and I f she can stay out of trouble should tag this one.