Hoosier Park kicks off the weekend with a 15-race card featuring Grand Circuit action. The 0.50 Late Pick 4 starts in Race 12. The sequence will have a $20,000 guaranteed pool, and it will be my focus.

Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.

Race 12

1-Ponda Warrior (10-1)-This 4-year-old isn't in the same league as Bythemissal yet, but has been racing really well. Willing to include because of the chalk drawing outside. Wilfong should work a nice trip from here and be in reach of the leader turning for the wire.
9-Bythemissal (8/5)-Many will single this Burke trainee who deserves the fanfare and has a 147.2 mark at Hoosier. Does have a win over this oval but it's a long stretch and sometimes this surface is difficult for those shipping in. If Gingras works a smooth trip, this should be the picture taker.

Race 13

4-Venerate (4-1)-Has had excuses in the last 2 starts and now comes back to Hoosier Park where the Melander trainee has hit the board in all 3 starts and has posted 2 wins. Will look for a big try with this post draw on an oval of past success.
7-It's Academic (5/2)-Will toss the last start as the Burke trainee was hung the mile in the slop at Yonkers. The six-year-old has 1 win and 3 second place finishes in 4 starts in Anderson. Likes to race near the top of the stack and should be a major player.

Race 14

4-Walkin On Sunshine (3-1)-Comes off a big race to finish 2nd at 19-1. Was able to pass the 1/5 chalk down the land and then was nipped at the wire by a 2/1 shot. Jay Cross was aggressive off the gate and the two that finished in the tight photo are not in this race.
6-Dixie Dream (9/2)-Was facing the same class as the one above and cashed a 3rd place check. Should fit well with this crew and could roll by down the lane if the pace is lively.

Race 15

3-Isitlikeitlooks (3-1)-Makes the 4th start off the bench and has needed more down the lane. Looking for better, comes back in sequence and may have met a beatable field.
5-Art It Is (4-1)-Has been camera shy after a big freshman campaign. Found the Hoosier Cup foes too tough, now drops to a spot to shine. De Long should work a good trip and be forwardly placed throughout.
6-RJ Rocks (9/2)-Does fit with this group, has the gate speed to leave and get on the point. If Macomber can work that trip, chances for a win go up at a square price.

0.50 Late Pick 4

1,9/4,7/4,6/3,5,6
Total Bet=$12

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