Bernier: Santa Anita pick three for Saturday, March 14

RACE 4

The two fastest runners in this field are SPY GIRL (3) and GREY GIRL GONE (8). Conventional wisdom would suggest that these two fillies will duel each other into submission, setting the race up for a horse to come from off the pace. But in a field of questionable quality, I’ll take a shot with the two horses I know will be forwardly placed and force the others to run me down. Should said potential speed duel develop, VOCALIST (7) projects to sit a very comfortable trip and possibly inherit the lead at the top of the lane.

A: 3,8
B: 7
C: 1

RACE 5

I think QIAONA (5) can find her way back to the winner’s circle in the Irish O’Brien Stakes. This daughter of Wilko made her return to the races a winning one at Golden Gate last out, and I think the turnback from a mile to 6 1/2 furlongs should do wonders for her. She projects to work out a cozy trip just in behind the early speeds, and Rafael Bejarano should have her ready to pounce as the field hits the top of the lane. It’s also worth noting the incredible jockey/trainer percentage when Bejarano rides for Ed Moger Jr.

A: 5
B: 6,4
C: NONE

:: Build your pick three ticket with DRF TicketMaker | DRF TicketMaker (Mobile)

RACE 6

In a race where a fair number of the runners haven’t shown the ability to pass horses at any point, I’ll be standing on the two runners I believe will be on or near the lead throughout – TAKEM BY SURPRISE (8) and KINGS ADVENTURE (11). Takem by Surprise has run fast enough in the past to get to the lead in a race like this, and the cutback from six to 5 1/2 furlongs should work to his advantage. The same can be said for Kings Adventure, who will have the benefit of receiving some class relief as well as making his second start off the layoff for trainer Jeff Mullins.

A: 8,11
B: 1
C: 2