It makes GREAT sense.
I happen to know both his dad who I rode a little in Md. and his mom who worked for me and was the daughter of probably the greatest exercise rider and outrider I ever saw, Charlie Linton. I talked about him in here when he passed away last year I think it was.
Nik can ride. Do doubt about that. I did see that he has had terrible seconditis down there but from such a strong family of riders both mom , dad and grand dad, if anyone can keep their head up during tough times, it would probably be Nik.
That horse fits here, is blinkers ON, and will have the most motivated rider in the race. You can bet that if Nik could set the race up, it would be him and Ortiz dueling to the finish line. Amazing how one bottom maiden race that Ortiz won't remember tomorrow will have a chance to be so important to Nik. I think Nik shows up in here with full focus. Yes, the horse has to run, but Nik will be pumped to turn for home with a shot.
It's all the little games within the game JBEX. It happens a lot, but fans don't have the opportunity to see a lot of it for what it is. This, for Nik, if it sets up right, is THAT.
I think it's a great pick for all the right reasons that you spoke to. You are really seeing it well JBEX, win or lose.
Excellent job IMO.