Hanson: Thoughts on Friday's late Pick 4 at Belmont Park

Here are some thoughts on Friday's Late Pick 4 at Belmont Park, which carries a guaranteed pool of $500,000.

Race 8 -- True North (G2)

Imperial Hint (#3) was nearly champion sprinter last year but settled for a clear second in the Breeders' Cup Sprint (G1). Lots of speed in this field, but he'll take some catching while shortening up from seven furlongs. Whitmore (#8) disappointed as the favorite in this last year. Fresher this time around and didn't get the best run in the Churchill Downs (G2) last out. Could inhale them all late.

Race 9 -- New York (G2)

Chad Brown obviously has the fillies to beat with Sistercharlie (#5) and Fourstar Crook (#8), with the latter perhaps a stronger danger this time with Irad Ortiz Jr. returning to the saddle. He timed the mare's rally perfectly in the Hillsborough (G2) two back.

Race 10 -- Belmont Gold Cup (G3)

Call to Mind (#1), owned by The Queen, has the necessary form lines to prove best, but not discounting the chances of French import Funny Kid (#4), who's proven over the trip albeit at slightly lower levels. Postulation (#8) drops in class from the Man o' War (G1), stretches out, and could prove threat third off the layoff.

Race 11 -- Maiden Special Weight

Into the Beach (#5) undoubtedly in need of latest off 11-month layoff and was off poorly to boot. McLaughlin/Bravo a very strong trainer/jockey combo. Prompt (#9), closely related to two-time Pan American (G2) winner Newsdad and his full brother Patterson Cross, showed noticeable improvement last time and could progress again.

Here's the 50-cent ticket:

3,8 with 5,8 with 1,4,8 with 5,9 = $12

Good luck!

(Fourstar Crook photo: SV Photography)