Guaranteed $25,000 Pick 4 Balmoral Selections for Tonight

Last night saw us hit three of four and it ended up being a miserly pay off anyway. Tonight is the $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 and going to offer two tickets. Using the selections offered below will cost you $36 and if you hit the “all” button on Race 9 the entire ticket would run you $120. I’m going with the $120 ticket tonight, but will offer three selections for Race 9 if you wish to hold to a tight budget.

Race 7 #2 LoverBoyLou ML 6/1 #5 NJ’s Fast Fletch 7/2 #9 Nash Gram ML 5/1

This is a tough race and if money was no object would take them all here too. We are not even mentioning American Solo or KB’s Robby who both could take this race. I like Nash Gram in this one. A nice paring of 79’s, likes to get out front but has never been on the outside, so that should make it interesting. He picks up Marcus Miller for the first time and Willis has done well with Marcus, .349. Otherwise, NJ’s Fast Fletch would be the one to tag.

Race 8 #1 Dial A Dragon ML 3/1

The Wilfong’s have this 3YO gelding clipping right along. Granted he hasn’t found the winners circle often but seems like he is growing into a fine pacer. He is back to the inside and should find himself in familiar position to pounce on the leaders.

Race 9 #2 Lady Lakers ML 4/1 #8 Cam Town Carrie ML 6/1 #9 Runaway Desirae ML 3/1

If you don’t hit the “all” button, then the one here is the #9. This lightly raced 3YO filly has won her two races and is now moving up in class. I lean to this types and would do the same here tonight. Kristopher Reynolds has a nice record with class movers, .409 and with Roberts they score 42% of the time. There’s plenty of good pacers here including the tough, Lady Lakers.

Race 10 #3 Challenge My Heart ML 4/1 #5 Forcryingoutloud ML 3/1 #8 Accountable Lady ML 5/1 #10 Pickaplacetopark ML 10/1

Anyone of these ladies could win this pace. For my money I’m going to stay with Pickaplacetopark. We had her last time and was set up perfectly to win then had a costly break. She does get the outside post which could be her undoing, but if Todd Warren can straighten her out she will hit a nice payoff. The other I like here is Forcryingoutloud. If you want to add one more horse take a look at the #1 Itzalassi. She is hasn’t been herself of late and is dropping in class and has shown she can run with this group

Guaranteed $20,000 Pick 4 Balmoral Selections

Tonight at Balmoral we have four stake races for the $20,000 Guaranteed Pick 4.

Race 7 #4 Swinging Beauty ML 3/1 #6 Honky Tonk Woman 9/2 #7 Mystical MJ ML 8/1

The first race is a one mile pace for 3YO fillies. This race is wide open compared to the other three offerings, and while Fresh Idea will be the favorite, I don’t see her holding up against this field. I’m going out on a limb and picking #7 Mystical MJ. She has raced very well at Balmoral, nice consistent speed figures and Marcus Miller in the buggy. It might be a reach compared to others, but thinking with her experience at the Park and Miller might give her a big advantage.

Race 8 #1 Lucky Jim ML 5/2 #5 Hot Shot Blue Chip ML 7/2 # Sir Caviar ML 8/1

Here we have a one mile trot for 4YO and up and the field tightens up considerably. I’m going with Sir Caviar brings in 4 wins in a row and stepping up in class. His speed fig’s are moving in the right direction, 94-94-99-100 and see nothing but upside. Lucky Jim is a huge factor with Miller driving and the ability to go real fast. He has been a touch inconsistent and have to go with Sir Caviar.

Race 9 #4 Foiled Again ML 7/2

In this one mile pace for 4YO and upward Foiled Again sticks out. Has won 13 of 27 this season, speed is over 100 consistently and Gingras drives. There are other good pacers in this field but the #4 is just faster and classer.

Race 10 #1 Betterthancheddar ML 3/1 #4 Dutch Richman ML 8/1 #6 He’s So Hot ML 8/1

The last stake race is a one mile pace for 3YO colts and geldings. The #1 will be the favorite and is well deserved. Brennan is driving this speedy colt who will be looking to win his 4th in a row. However, I’m going with #6 He’s So Hot, the angle here is that He’s So Hot has won 3 of 4 here at Balmoral and Todd Warren is back in the driver’s seat. While not as fast as Betterthancheddar, I’m thinking the home track favorite will out fox the invaders and pull it off.

Guaranteed $25,000 Pick 4 Balmoral Selections for Tonight

For those who don’t know, I do the Handicap Weekend at http://blog.horseplayersassociation.org/ and with the Breeder’s Cup festival yesterday I didn’t get to the Saturday Pick 4 at Balmoral. So we are back on schedule today with the Guaranteed $25,000 Pick 4. The races are number 7 through 10 and we are going to stay with a $24 ticket. Here we go …

Race 7 #4 AJS April Doll ML 3/1

There are several females that I like, Toshie Special, Tinkers Dam and Cole Blue but in the end the number 4 looks too good. This 5YO mare is dropping in class with a nice pair of speed figures (78 – 79) and has back to back 1:53 finishing times. Marcus Miller is driving and Scott Galloway hits at .297 with drop downs. No lock but she looks super fit and ready to win it.

Race 8 #6 Hitithard ML 8/1 #7 Detailer ML 12/1 #8 Thrills Sugar Buzz ML 6/1

In this race, Thrills Sugar Buzz looks real solid. Two wins in last three, excellent times and good speed (83-77-83). Todd Warren has been right on in the buggy with this 7YO gelding and while the others can be tough, I see the #8 handling them. You could argue singling him here too.

Race 9 #1 Itzalassi ML 8/1 #4 Temperment ML 8/1 #6 Bobs Minute Maid ML 5/1

This is the ticket buster race. With no budget in place I’d hit the “all” button. In truth, the more I look at this field the less I like them. There are several here that have done by us in the past, but they look like they are out of form. You look at Itzalassi and you see those five wins in a row, then three with troubled trips, can this 3YO filly bounce back? I have always been a big Temperment fan, but she is a far cry from her form of August, so that leaves us the #6. Bob’s Minute Maid is another that has been less than stellar; the only thing that makes him strong is his final times. So in the end, I’m going with Itzalassi to come back and win.

Race 10 # 1 Forcryingoutloud ML 3/1 #2 Mandy’s Gold ML 5/1 #6 Pickaplacetopark ML 5/1

This is a highly competitive group and in the end I’ll go with the #6 Pickaplacetopark. This will be her first start at Balmoral and with Todd Warren driving. She had some good efforts at Maywood and then struggled at Indy. Her back to back 68’s while not the top for this group shows me form is coming into play. The 4YO mare has shown good 70’s not too far back and good shoot through this crowd and take it. I also like Mandy’s Gold in here too.

$25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 at Balmoral Park Tonight - Selections

This morning I took a look at the results for the Pick 4 last night at Balmoral. I have to admit I took a long blink not seeing one of my selections winning. I believe that has happened only once before, then I looked at the payoff and saw $3000+ and knew it was long shot city. Tonight is the Guaranteed $25,000 Pick 4 and here go … (Note this is a $36 ticket tonight)

Race 7 #1 Boiler Heidi Ho ML 3/1 #3 Vegas Venture ML 7/2

I could single the #1 easily. This 8YO mare has won 2 of the last 4, she is one of the best in the Wilfong barn. Her speed fig’s are rolling along nicely. We have to keep an eye on Vegas Venture, while her speed isn’t there she is a recent winner and Marcus Miller is in the buggy, that alone makes her dangerous.

Race 8 #4 Skinny Jeans ML 5/1 #5 Waiting and Hoping ML 7/2 #7 Redhot Hart ML 3/1

We had Skinny Jeans before and finished 5th after coming off a layoff. Her past speed figures should dominate this group and could single her too. I do like the #5, moving up in class, respectable speed (71-73-76) and has Miller driving.

Race 9 #2 Wolf Creek Pass ML 5/1 #3 Powerful Speed ML 3/1

I like Wolf Creek Pass here, last out he broke before the start and never recovered. Has good speed and John Roberts drives him well. Powerful Speed will be tough with a recent win, not sure how much that last one took out of him. It will be a close race.

Race 10 #1 Freddy To Rumble ML 7/2 #4 Mr Casual ML 12/1 #8 Rockme Amadeous ML 6/1

This is the most contentious race of the evening. All of them have had a measure of success in recent times but will go with the class dropping Rockme Amadeous. He won two back, has Marcus Miller back in the driver seat and Procopi is back training this 4YO gelding. The speed and success along with the high winning percentage connections say’s the #8 can take this one.

Guaranteed $20,000 Pick 4 Balmoral Selections for Tonight

Last Sunday, we were well on our way with three winners in a row until Little Kiera decided to derail our Pick 4 ticket. The 5YO mare won at 28-1 and paid a nice huge $59.20 and the Pick 4 paid off at $1267! So tonight we have the $20,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 at Balmoral, and the ticket looks pretty tight so with our $24 investment we have a good chance to snag this one. It will be a beautiful night in Crete so if you are in the area head out there. The Pick 4 starts with Race 10.

Race 10 #1A Major Tipper ML 8/1 #6 NJ’S Fast Fletch ML 9/2 #9 Rocket Dog ML 10/1

This was a fun race to handicap. Major Tipper should be the one to beat. He has posted a nice pair of 79’s and Seekman has driven him into contention in the last two. This should be the race where he nails the finish line. I’ve been a big fan of Rocket Dog and he could surprise here too. The things that l like about the #9 is the consistent speed fig’s, Costing takes over the buggy and with Phillips they have won .339 of the time. He has been knocking on the door and this race fits him well.

Race 11 #3 Special Promise ML 8/1 #7 Reilly’s Daughter ML 3/1 #10 Temperment ML 8/1

I’m going with #3 Special Promise here. A recent winner and moving up in class with DeLong driving. Granted her speed doesn’t hold too many in this one, but she is razor sharp and sits right in this one. From a pure speed play, Reilly’s Daughter should smoke them all if she breaks free.

Race 12 #2 Major Monet ML 7/2 #9 REI Rogers 10/1

I actually had Major Monet singled here but couldn’t find a third to play in Race 13 so added the #9. Major Monet post highly consistent speed figures and solid times. Has been close two of the last three and has the front end speed to go out and hold off this group. I like the #9 based on moving up in class, and as most know I favor those types.

Race 13 #3 Cole Blue ML 6/1 # 10 Maid Money ML 3/1

I found it hard to get excited about any of these in this race. We have been successful with Cole Blue in the past but would go with Maid Money. She has one win and two seconds (by a nose in both) at this level. If Roberts gets this filly out on the front end, has an excellent chance of taking the win.

Guaranteed $25,000 Pick 4 Balmoral Selections for Tonight

I want to thank all of my readers for your patience the last couple of weeks. I’ve kicked this nasty cold finally and now back to find that elusive Pick 4 ticket. As a reminder, we play ten horses at a budget ticket of $24. Our goal is to handicap tightly and win small Pick 4 pots. So tonight is the Guaranteed $25,000 Pick 4 at Balmoral Park.

Race 7 #1 Runaway Desirae ML 8/1 #7 Shes Lovin It ML 3/1 #9 Like Your Style ML 7/2

I’m going to stick with Shes Lovin it in this race. She has posted some nice final times and can string good speed figures. Has been in the money 4 of the last 5 with a win and Nick Giberson does well with 2YO’s. I find interesting that Giberson makes a driver change, the shakeup could put her back on track. I also like the first time starter, #1 Runaway Desirae.

Race 8 #2 Powerful Speed ML 4/1 #8 The Evictor ML 7/2

I thought of singling the #2 trotter. This 4YO has posted impressive speed numbers in the past and see no reason for him not to return to that form. The Evictor is the only one that has shown the potential to run with him. It’s a two horse race.

Race 9 #2 Jamaica Hanover ML 5/1 #3 Devachan ML 3/1 #7 Mearl Finn ML 10/1

This is the contentious race of the night. I will go with Devachan here due to nice pairs of 80’s, final times have been good and consistent. You can’t ignore Jamaica Hanover, who has had a good history at Balmoral. Finally, I added Mearl Finn, she got roughed up last out, but can race fast and might just sneak past Devachan.

Race 10 #2 Tinkers Damn ML 3/1 #6 Skinny Jeans ML 5/1

You could feel comfortable singling the #2 in this race. Toss out the last race, and you see a horse that knows how to be there in the end. Adding Skinny Jeans mainly due to the fact she has flashed hot speed fig’s in the past and Carpenter drives this mare real well. If you want to play the fifty cent trifecta, add #8 Kennans Nancy Lee.

Pick 4 selections for Sunday's Guaranteed $25,000 at Balmoral park

Last night we scored a small Pick 4 payoff of $127.80 on our $24 ticket. I’ll take it, in fact, will take those two days a week! Tonight is the Guaranteed $25,000 Pick 4 so let’s get started and see if we can snag two in a row.

Race 7 #2 Lotsa Cotton ML 6/1 #9 Zellers Island ML 5/1 #10 Perfect Timing ML 3/1

I like Lotsa Cotton so much I gave thought of singling him here. His last two races have been solid with nice speed figures of 70 – 71 and flashes the best final times of anyone in this race. The outsider in this race is Big Black Mac who came in second last out showing a 71 speed number.

Race 8 #3 Tinkers Damn ML 4/1

She is rounding into top form and Kincley always does well with her. I don’t really see anyone else here that can challenge this 8YO mare and expect another big race from her. She is always around the money and with speed she should finally find the winners circle at Balmoral.

Race 9 #1 Maplegrove Shaelyn ML 3/1 #6 Bonnie’s Star ML 8/1 #7 Fox Valley Ruffian ML 7/2

In this race which is highly competitive I see the #1 coming back after that last race and winning. She shows great speed and class and should beat this group back as she drops in class. The chaser here is Fox Valley Ruffian, she too shows great speed and finished second to Maplegrove Shaelyn and Husted brings out the best in her.

Race 10 #2 Hereiam Coolwater ML 10/1 #4 Accountable Lady ML 7/2 #7 Fox Valley Malibu ML 10/1

If there was a race to punch the “all” button this is it. Highly contentious and several could easily upset. A true ticket buster for a pick 4. All in all, going to go with #2 Hereiam Coolwater. Great speed, has won two of her last three and Curtin her trainer gets into the buggy. The only one to challenge is the #4 if she finds her form.

Pick 4 selections for Saturday's Guaranteed $20,000 at Balmoral Park

Tonight is the $20,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 at Balmoral Park. I’m going to stick with my $24 ticket, but must admit almost wavered and add two more horses in the 13th race. I will mention the two that I would’ve added when we get down to that race. The Pick 4 will start at Race 10, and here are the selections.

Race 10 #5 Fools Gold ML 3/1 #7 Well To Do Guru ML 7/2 #8 Big Daddy Woo Woo ML 5/1

This race is an Invitational Handicap so we are going to see some strong entries. Big Daddy Woo Woo should end up being the favorite, but I’m going with Fools Gold. He has been posting strong speed fig’s and won three back here at Balmoral in a handicap race. Marcus Miller has driven him twice and won both times. His final times are competitive against both the #8 and the #7 Well To Do Guru. I expect he will slide off to a good price.

Race 11 #1 Unity Road ML 3/1 #4 Blueridgevalentino ML 8/1 #5 Polaris 6/1

Blueridgevalentino is moving up in class after winning three in a row. He has shown nice improvement in his speed and Carlson has him in a nice groove. While Unity Road will be tough, I like the improving #4 in this spot. The spoiler in this race is Smiling Bob coming out of the 8 hole.

Race 12 #2 Fiveknuckleshuffle ML 4/1 #6 Bill’s Boy ML 8/1 #8 Masterchargeit ML 5/1

This is the wide open race of the four. It is the race you want to hit the “all” button and root for the “bomber” to score and push the winning ticket into the four figures. Sadly, I had to pick three and find a winner. I could argue a case for several here, will stay with Masterchargeit dropping down in class. He has shown the best consistent speed for this group, and Michael Cox does well in dropping horses down into these spots. I do like the #2 a great deal and believe he has a good shot of upsetting.

Race 13 #10 KB’s Robby ML 9/2

This race is a Claiming Handicap and it draws some interesting plays. Right now it’s hard to go against the #10. John Roberts has this gelding hitting a nice consistent speed figures in the 80’s and finishing well. He knows how to win, and see no reason not to take this one. The others here that I liked were, #5 Oh Poncho and #3 NJ’s Super Charger.

Balmoral $20,000 Pick 4 Selections for Saturday 10/1

On Wednesday we got close again to hitting the Pick 4 at Balmoral. First two races came in as predicted, but in the third race, our old friend, Mearl Finn scored. She has won for us before, and it is always tough to leave her off the ticket. She did a good job at 3/1. Tonight is the Guaranteed $20,000 Pick 4 and got a good feeling we got this one wired. Still holding to a $24 ticket, so if you add one or two more, you still could get some good value.

Race 10 #2 Delightful Five ML 3/1 #4 Major Monet ML 5/1 #8 Omaha Survivor ML 4/1

There are some nice horses in this pace but form is the question. We have had success with the #4 in the past but not sure if he is fading or going to rebound. I like Delightful Five in this spot. The last three races his speed fig’s have improved, has raced well and looks poised to capture a win. The one that could find his way back to the winner circle is Omaha Survivor.

Race 11 #5 Bobs Minute Maid ML 7/2 #7 Temperment ML 9/2 #10 Dawn’s Mist ML 6/1

This is a wide open race, and there are others here that could easily win. In all actuality, I would hit the “all” button. In picking one to play, I keep going back to the #7. She has posted two 81’s in a row, knows how to win and final times have improved.

Race 12 #1 Allamerican Bomber ML 3/1 #5 Look Yankee ML 4/1 #10 Giddy Up Boy ML 5/1

I’m going to stay with Giddy Up Boy in this pace. The angle here is Todd Warren back in the buggy. He has a good ROI with this gelding and I believe he is rounding back into form and has the class edge . There is plenty of other to choose so another race that you could justify the “all” button.

Race 13 #8 Kitty O’Brien ML 4/1

She is coming back off a claim where the trainer has a 52% ROI and Eric Carlson takes over the driving. This mare has been pacing real well, and only a lack of room pushed into a fourth last out. She gets back into her previous form she should take this group easily. Money Runner and Cole Star have to be considered, but banking on Kitty doing her job.

Balmoral Guarantees $50,000 in the Pick 4 tonight!

We start tonight at Balmoral with a $50,000 Guaranteed Pick4! After a nice break, this is a great way to get back into the hunt to pull down Pick 4’s. The takeout is only 15%, and the guarantee is quite a jump from the usual $15,000. The Pick 4 is Race 7 through 10, we’re sticking with a $24 ticket, and the spread will be a 3-2-2-3. The selections are as follows:

Race 7 #1 Hot Laps ML 10/1 #6 Maximus Meridius N ML 4/1 #10 Rocket Dog ML 8/1

This race should be a battle between the #6 and #10, with Maximus Meridius N winning two in a row. You could also add Samstorm if you want to single Race 8. It’s hard not to stay with Maximus again, he is a great groove and final times are really strong, but for the value I will go with Rocket Dog. His last outing was super good, and strong improvement overall. I believe it’s time for him to be a winner.

Race 8 #3 Towne Nurse ML 5/2 #10 No Doubt ML 5/1

You could single this race with Towne Nurse, and I see no reason this 5YO mare can’t win her third in a row. The Cosling’s have her in a nice spot, winning five of seven, the only downside if the track is off, she could be vulnerable. No Doubt could come from the outside and take it, but will go chalk here with Towne Nurse.

Race 9 #1 Primrose Path ML 6/1 #5 Tinkers Damn ML 3/1

A lot of action will go to the #5 and Madison Paige, but I really like the consistent speed fig’s with Primrose Path. Last three races have been in the 70’s and she has reduced her final times in each race to an even 1:54. The last two races she had a onerous post and tonight she gets the inside, with Leonard in the buggy again, this should be her time to score.

Race 10 #6 Fox Valley Phoebe ML 8/1 #8 Frontier Belle ML 8/1 #9 What’sALittleRain ML 5/1

This race is wide open, and if you didn’t add Samstorm in Race 7 and singled Towne Nurse in the eighth you could add one more here. If you go that direction then consider, Sues Blue Pants. If I had to take one here, it would be the #6 Fox Valley Phoebe, she is dropping in class. In her first race at Balmoral she was not threat, but posted a strong 73 and a solid 1:54.4, her best time in a long time. Would consider this filly to be ready, and getting a better post this time out.

Try and try again for the $15,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 at Balmoral Park

There isn’t much to say about Sunday, another repeat of bombers (we even had one on our ticket, Gravel Crusher that paid $77 to win!) and knocking us out. Today is the $15,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 so let’s see if we can get back to our winning ways.

Race 7 #6 KB’s Taylor ML 6/1 #8 Triggerfish ML 3/1 #9 Johnny B Cool ML 8/1

This race is loaded with good pacers, but I’m staying with the improving Johnny B Cool. The last three races have shown improving speed (71-73-75) that’s about two lengths a race. His last out he got stuck three wide and still finished second . The one you might want to add to this group is Rocket Dog.

Race 8 #2 Madison Paige N ML 7/2 #5 Nannah Montana ML 5/1 #8 Tinkers Dam 4/1

I originally was going to single this race with Madison Paige. But after looking at it closer I added two strong pacers and finally decided Nannah Montana can win this race. Her speed figures are the best even though she shows to be a bouncer. Her last times were outstanding and should put together a great race to win and get a good price.

Race 9 #6 Sentimentaljourney ML 3/1

He has the most consistent speed in this group, has won three in a row before having an off race. Now shipping in from Indy, and those shippers do well on first race out. He certainly not the fastest but knows how to win, and feeling Balmoral will suit him well.

Race 10 #2 Lets Talk About It ML 5/1 #3 Kitty O’Brien ML 3/1 #8 Towne Nurse 4/1

This is a wide open race and the “all” button is warranted. However, I like the #8 Towne Nurse. She came back off the bench to win going away and posting nice speed and a solid final time. I see no reason for her not repeating today, the one that could beat her is Kitty O’Brien. This looks like a good trifecta group on top of the Pick 4.

Sunday $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 Selections for Balmoral

Last night the Pick 4 paid off at over $4900, making that five nights where the Guaranteed Pick 4 exceeded four figures. Two long shots came through the last two races, not much you can do about it, unless you hit the “all” button, neither one figured in the groupings. So tonight, we will try to get back on track with the a Guaranteed $25,000 Pick 4. Our $24 ticket will have no singles tonight, going with a 3-2-3-2.

Race 7 #2A Park Lane Hotshot ML 5/2 #5 Mattoutflying ML 3/1 #6 BH Cullen ML 8/1

I like the #5 in this race with consistent speed figures in the 90’s, Miller is back in the buggy where they won together, and this gelding joins a strong performing barn. The outsider in this one is BH Cullen, rising up in class and Casey Leonard is driving. This horse does know how to win, and gets a positive post here.

Race 8 #3 Osage ML 7/2 #8 Lady Lakers 5/1

There are only two horses that look solid in this race and will go with Lady Lakers. While not winning for a while, she does race consistent speed numbers and goes with a strong driver in Costing. This is a mixed bag and where a longshot can upset the whole ticket. But believe the #8 can strike and win against them.

Race 9 #5 NJ’S Fast Fletch ML 12/1 #8 Truly The Best ML 4/1 #10 Gravel Crusher ML 15/1

In this one the standout is Truly The Best. Had won three in a row until last race, and with a nice pairings of 81 - 82 should find himself back in the winner circles. He run’s real well at Balmoral and see no reason for not winning in this spot.

Race 10 #4 OH Poncho ML 5/1 #7 KB’S Robby 3/1

You can’t ignore the #4 here dropping in class and shipping in with an excellent win record and solid speed fig’s. KB’S Robby is a solid performer and will give a good account of himself, but not sure he is fast enough to beat Oh Poncho.

Championship Stakes for $20,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 @BalmoralPark

Last Wednesday night we got knocked out on the first race when longshot Miss Blues scored at 25/1! The rest of the ticket went fine with Plum Grove our single winning and our groupings doing fine. The Pick 4 ticket paid $1803! That is the 4th Guaranteed Pick 4 that has exceeded a $1000 in a row. Tonight’s races for the $20,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 will be no walk in the park. We have one Stakes consolation and three Stakes Championship races, all good horses and each one can win. Staying the course with a $24 ticket, here are my selections tonight.

Race 10 #1A Flowmaster ML 4/1 #4 Cole Snap ML 8/1 #7 Fox Valley Yukon 5/2

The first race is the consolation race and it’s a tough one for these colts and geldings. I had real trouble choosing between Flowmaster and Fox Valley Yukon. Both have good speed fig’s, had lousy races last out, know how to win and solid connections. In this case, I would wait for the price to dictate the direction here. So will take the one who has the higher odds, and it should be Flowmaster.

Race 11 #4 Pardon ML 6/1 #5 Mystical MJ ML 3/1 #6 Fox Valley Praline ML 7/2

This is a championship pace for 3YO fillies. Some excellent choices here and we have had several of them to win in the past. Mystical MJ is going for her fifth in a row as Fox Valley Praline is in line for four in a row. I’m going to lean slightly to Fox Valley Praline only due to stronger speed numbers of late. It’ll be interesting to see the tactics between Miller and Roberts since the break next to each other. Pardon is dangerous here too.

Race 12 #7 Power Of A Moment ML 7/2

Another 3YO championship pace but this one is for colts and geldings. A tough group of horses and very difficult to single here, but when all said and done I have the #7 holding them off to score. This gelding had a strong streak going and then fell out of form. It looks like Miller has him rounding back into shape and should have a strong race tonight. Many here can’t be ignored but will take the #7 to win it.

Race 13 #2 BOI ML 6/1 #5 He’s So Hot ML 7/2 #8 Dutch Richman ML 3/1

Here is another tough group in this 3YO colt & gelding stake championship race. I like the #8 Dutch Richman here. We had him in our group back on the 10th win he won and that made it 9 wins in 13 tries at Balmoral. His speed numbers have been rising consistently with Marcus Miller driving. After his last effort he looks like he is getting stronger and should win this race.

The All button for the $15,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 @ Balmoral

Last Sunday, scored two nice victories in the Thoroughbreds with Grassy winning the Bowling Green at Belmont and then Sunday, winning the BC Cup at Hastings with Northern Causeway. Then we roll into Balmoral for the $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 and get creamed. We hit the first race with Fox Valley Absolut and then zilch. It paid over $4,000 and that made the Guaranteed Pick 4’s over four figures for the week. This is a new week and back to our own money now, and this card tonight is no easy one, in fact, if I had the cash would hit the all button in Race 9 & 10. But with $24 to spend it will be one tough ticket in the Guaranteed $15,000 Pick 4 for tonight, so here it goes …

Race 7 #1 Stormont Caviar ML 8/1 #5 Mad Cow Lisa ML 3/1 #6 POW ML 4/1

POW is going to be my choice in this race. This 5YO gelding is dropping in class and has a pair of 81’s recently. His finishing times and class should prevail over this mixed bag of trotters. Michael Reading seems to do well with class droppers and will play that angle.

Race 8 #5 Plum Grove ML 3/1

This race is like Race 7, a mixed bag of horses and that on paper anyone could win, given the perfect trip. The #5 Plum Grove is really in a nice groove with back to back seconds and improving finishing times. Marcus Miller drives her for the third time and looks poised to win it. So will take the shot and single here.

Race 9 #5 Wand’s Cowgirl ML 5/1 #8 Tinkers Damn ML 7/2 #10 Edita Hanover ML 6/1

Another race where anyone of these girls could win, it’s that wide open. If you can afford it hit the “all” button. After all the hemming and hawing, I landed on #8 Tinkers Damn. This mare knows how to find the board and has decent speed. Also, going with the trainer angle here, Kincley doesn’t have a deep string and his horses do real well. If she gets to the lead she will wire this group.

Race 10 #6 Johnny B Cool ML 4/1 #9 Samstorm ML 3/1 #10 Maximus Meridus N ML 5/1

In this claiming race, five horses are dropping in class. This makes it especially tough to find the right class and speed pairing. Like race #9, if you have the funds hit the “all” button and hope for the bombers to show up. Without that luxury I’m playing #9 Samstorm to win. Last two races have been real strong and feel he is top form, the post is the only downfall for him, but if Wilfong keeps him close he can pass this lot. Of all the droppers, Johnny B Cool is the live one here.

Pick 4 selections for Sunday's Guaranteed $25,000 at Balmoral park

Last night was one of those nights where we can groan that Fox Valley Praline broke up our Pick 4 in Race 11. Then we can smile as we hit a minor Trifecta in Race 10 for $30 and the big bonanza when Sporty Gypsy strikes for the win in Race 12 for $63! So while we missed the $1300 payoff in the Pick 4 it wasn’t a total loss. Tonight is the $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 and another bunch Stakes Elimination races with strong fields. Going to stay with a $24 ticket and almost back to zero on our balance.

Race 7 #1 Joinusforsumefun ML 3/1 #3 Devachan ML 8/1 #7 Fox Valley Absolut ML 9/2

This is a tough race and I left off Temperment. In this race I’m going with Devachan, has been flashing consistent speed figures and two back got shuttled back and then last out was an improvement even though being parked out. Third trip for John Roberts and believe he will get him in good position to win this race.

Race 8 #1 Sugar Bunny ML 5/1 #8 Ole Miss ML 8/1 #8 A Nite To Remember ML 8/1

I’ll admit I’m lukewarm on all the choices in this race. Since I have to go with one, I will play the recent winner moving up in class, Sugar Bunny. Wilfong has won 4 out of 8 with this 6YO mare, and has improving speed numbers.

Race 9 #3 GJ Photo Victory ML 3/1

This is an outstanding gelding going for its fourth in a row. He has excellent speed with Marcus Miller driving. This one is as close as a lock as you can get.

Race 10 #7 Won The Battle ML 9/2 #9 Towneism ML 7/2 #10 Bell Valley Zeke ML 8/1

I’m leaning to #9 Towneism with his consistent speed and two wins in last three. Looking for him to bounce back from last race, has the ability to go wire to wire and wouldn’t be surprised if he does. The surprise in the group is Rejoiceandbeglad, who we have had before and has won. But this trio is just too tough for him.

Saturday Night Pick 4 Selections Balmoral Guaranteed $20,000

On Wednesday we got knocked out of the Pick 4 by two longshots. The first one to take us out was Maximus Mereidus N, we had him in the past but thought him overmatched in this one and paid the price for turning my back on him. Then in the last race Tilly Filly went off at 20/1 and won, bringing in a nice $2700+ Pick 4 winner. If you had it congrats! Tonight, we have the $20,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 and all four races are Stakes Elimination races. It means good horses and wide open results. Still holding to a $24 ticket here are the horses we are going with.

Race 10 #5 Mystical MJ ML 2/1

This will be the single tonight. She has won four in a row and the Miller team looks tough here. I do like Toshie Special and Pardon, but the #5 speed just dominates this group of 3YO fillies. So we are off to a good start or done early, I believe Mystical MJ will have another easy win.

Race 11 #3 She’s Automatic ML 8/1 #6 Nina Coleada ML 12/1 #9 Fox Valley Touche ML 3/1

I’m going with Nina Coleada is this elimination race. Tossing the last out and looking at those two strong speed figures prior. Has Marcus Miller in the buggy and last time he drove her, she won. I’m looking the #6 to bounce back and take this field. The other threat is Fox Valley Touche.

Race 12 #1 BOI ML 9/5 #3 Sporty Gypsy ML 12/1 #Playin For Keeps ML 8/1

I’m going outside on this one and taking Sporty Gypsy. BOI will be the chalk and has all rights to be the favorite and win, after winning two in a row and super speed fig’s. What I like about the #3 is he has shown speed to go with BOI, has won at various tracks and looking for him to run a strong one here. He is definitely the price play of the Pick 4, and if he can to the front might just go wire to wire. If you want to increase your ticket and add another look at #9 Cole Snap moving up in class and has all the ability to surprise.

Race 13 #2 Fox Valley Yukon ML 4/1 #3 He’s So Hot ML 5/2 #4 Dutch Richman ML 2/1

This is one of those races you want to hit the all button and look for the big price to hit. There is that much contention in this race. I‘ll go total chalk here and take #3 He’s So Hot in this race. Nice consistent speed, 84-84-86-87-85 and three wins in a row, and likes to get to the front. Todd Warren and Roger Welch have a supper ROI together and should win again. The fourth horse here would be the #1 Fox Valley Mercury.

Get it done in the $15,000 Pick 4 Balmoral Park tonight!

Last Sunday was another near miss in the $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4, we had the first three races nailed. Race 7 started out with all three selections coming in and paying a $60.80 Trifecta. Race 8 Joinusforseomefun scored and our single in Race 9, Lookin’ Ahead went off at 3/1 and paid $7.60 to win. It was Race 10 that was our undoing, when Fax Me and Ajs April Doll came in 1 – 2. Our three selections finished 3-4-5 and the Pick 4 paid a nice $230.10. So the handicapping is solid but those two upset the apple cart. Actually I felt when our single hit we were home free, just another reminder how humbling this sport it. This being Wednesday, it’s the Guaranteed $15,000 Pick 4 at Balmoral, our stake is starting to get low, so we need to hit is this week. Let’s get it done this week!

Race 7 #7 Bellvalley Miracle ML 8/1 #9 Itzalassi ML 7/2 #10 Maranatha Hanover ML 9/2

I thought Maranatha Hanover was going to win last out as a favorite. I like her chances here, the only other speed on the front is the #9 which is usually driven by John Roberts, but since he owns, trains and drives Maranatha Hanover, he is obviously staying with her. Got that feeling this will be her night to return to the winners circle.

Race 8 #3 Leutenant General ML 8/1 #7 Lucky Life ML 6/1 #9 Gar ML 4/1

This was a tough race and there are several in here that could upset the ticket, Rocket Dog and Samstorm being just two. I’m going out on a limb and taking the #3 Leutenant General. Beware the shipper here coming in with good speed and class figures, good final times and has de Long in the buggy. This horse should sweep by this group and pick up a tag.

Race 9 #5 Candy N Apples ML 7/2 #8 Fox Valley Smooch ML 10/1 #9 Kennans Kelli ML 9/2

The #9 is dropping in class with excellent speed and class numbers and is hard to ignore here. The post position is the only thing that hurts this mare chances. While Hitman has a tough run of late, the trainer Joel Smith hasn’t, hitting a ROI of .400 with class droppers. She has an excellent shot here and will take it.

Race 10 #1 Kimberely R ML 4/1

She is by far the class and speed of this lineup. Not a lock with Mandy’s Gold and Plum Grove, but this filly has good front end speed and is in the one hole. If she gets a jump she could go wire to wire. She has won 3 of 6 this summer and ready to do it again. For the .50 Trifecta would add Mandy’s Gold and Chevie Fly Bye (dropping down in class).

Good luck and let's get off the "near misses".

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.

Guaranteed $20,000 Pick 4 Balmoral Selections & $2 Miller Lites

Last Wednesday was a near miss. We had the first three races in the bag going into the dreaded single. I had selected Maranatha Hanover but also mentioned that Maladar would be tough, and tough he was winning the race. Maladar went off at 5/1 and paid $12.40 to win and the Pick 4 paid out $288.20. So if you added Maladar to your ticket, making it a $48 play you would had an excellent return. I’m going to remind all readers that the Pick 4 is the best value play in horse racing, and at many tracks the takeout is low. Here at Balmoral it’s only 14%! It just shows that with a small investment and tight handicapping you can score some nice returns … consistently. In time I will go back and figure out if I added those horses I mentioned but didn’t add, and increase my tickets how many Pick 4’s would I’d hit so far. Maybe by next Wednesday have those numbers.

So tonight is the $20,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 at Balmoral. Races 10 through 13 and this card is very difficult to play on $24, so more luck will be needed tonight. So enjoy those $2 Miller Lites and $2 grill and here we go with tonight’s selections:

Race 10 #3 Waltakawalcek ML 10/1 #5 Cole Snap ML 5/2 #6 Bell Valley Bill ML 3/1

I like Cole Snap in this race, consistent speed figures, the last two races were strong finishes and just missed. The connections are strong and look perfect to grab the winners circle tonight. This gelding’s speed and class numbers are the tops of this group.

Race 11 #8 Mattoutflying ML 8/1

The #8 is shipping in from Indy and has done well in the claiming ranks posting strong speed figures. Now in the NW class and should dominate this group Marcus Miller is driving and has had good success in the past. Going to single here even though Voomerang will be looming.

Race 12 #3 Parked Onda Street ML 8/1 #6 My Boy Luke ML 3/1 #10 Onhishonor Hanover 4/1

The #6 My Boy Luke has the speed and class edge here. Nice efforts on the road and now back in Crete. Has done well here and Todd Warren has gelding in a nice groove.

Race 13 #8 Niteinthebox ML 9/2 #9 All American Solo ML 3/1 #10 KB’s Robby ML 7/2

This is one tough race, several recent winners and great drivers making picking one difficult. I’m going with #9 All American Solo. He has won 3 in a row, consistent speed and solid final times. Miller and Morales know how to win with this gelding and wouldn’t expect anything different tonight.

Late News: Finally conquered Saratoga! Handicapped Havre de Grace to win the Woodward, the analysis is at http://blog.horseplayersassociation.org/ Good luck and will see you tomorrow night with the selections for the $25,000 Guaranteed Pick 4 at Balmoral.

Guaranteed Pick 4 Balmoral Selection 8/31 Winner's Galore

Before we take a look at tonight’s Pick 4 selections, I’d like to look back on Sunday results. It is obvious, I didn’t hit it or my Monday blog would have been full of whoops and hollers. It was one of those tough nights were there was so many good horses and the ones left off made me pay for it. First race we hit it with Majestic Royale winning. Race 8 saw Nite to Remember win and I mentioned he might be a factor, and he was, blowing up the card. Next was Perfect Rendition winning and this was a total miss on my part. Looking back over the form this horse had every reason to be in the mix. Lastly, we went single with Little Gus and mentioned a concern with Rejoiceandbeglad, and sure enough he won and drove the stake through my handicapping heart. The Pick 4 paid a nice $1424.20.

In talking with some friends, they feel I’m making it more difficult on myself using a $24 ticket. If I expanded a bit more and used $90, the hit ratio would be much higher, for I could add additional horses. They contend it’s not my handicapping but a too tight of a ticket that reduces the “hit ratio” and they use Sunday as an example. Adding those three horses would have made the ticket $96 and the return would be over $1400. Their rationale is correct, but I explained to them I was trying to show good handicapping skills and some old fashion luck you could still hit the Pick 4. I may change later, but for now it’s a $24 ticket and 10 horses.

So tonight is Guaranteed $15,000 Pick 4 at Balmoral Park in Crete, IL and here are the selections:

Race 7: #1 Itzalassi ML 6/1 #4 Air Sissy ML 9/2 #7 Sport N Lady ML 3/1

I like all three these and would’ve had a difficult time choosing just one. If I had to choose one I would go with #4 Air Sissy, dropping down in class with improving speed figures, Casey Leonard staying with her and the trainer has a nice ROI in class drops. She just feels right in this spot.

Race 8: #3 Accountable Lady ML 8/1 #4 Night’s All Night ML 3/1 #7 No Doubt ML 6/1 #8 Sugar Bunny ML 9/2

I broke ranks and took four horses for this race; it’s that contentious and wide open. I like #8 No Doubt here for she has shown nice speed fig’s, Warren and Yoder have worked well together and she won two back. Last outing she was parked out so will toss it out and say she comes back and wins it. The other one is #8 Sugar Bunny playing the recent claim angle, Perry Smith has a nice ROI with recent claims and changes drivers to Eric Carlson who is having a good year.

Race 9: #7 Ave Marie ML 3/1 #9 Mad Cow Lisa ML 6/1

Could make a strong argument to single the #7 here but #9 Mad Cow Lisa has won 5 in a row and is moving up in class. I have a strong bias to horses that have done well consistently and are moving through the conditions. Smolin is in the buggy and Makin is doing well. Overall, Ave Marie is the key horse here with strong consistent speed figures (80-79-79-79) and has either won or been ITM in her last 7 efforts. John Roberts and Erin Elliott are a strong team.

Race 10: #7 Maranatha Hanover ML 4/1

This filly has been gradually improving with each race, she is trained and driven by John Roberts and her speed and class equals any of the others in this race. She isn’t a lock by any circumstances, the #8 Maladar is tough and has been consistent as well. But in the end the #7 is faster and I believe this will be her night to win.