BALLARD HIGH Trainer: Linda Rice Last race: Feb. 10, 3rd Finish: 5th by 8 1/2  Beyer: 53 First-time starter was away from the gate very poorly and acting green early while facing several experienced rivals, but he raced on all through the stretch for a trainer who tends to get significant improvement out of young horses after a start. POP THE HOOD Trainer: Rodrigo Ubillo Last race: Feb. 11, 4th Finish: 3rd by 2 3/4  Beyer: 84 Caught a sloppy track for his return from a six-month layoff and he was forced to contest the pace while pinned to the rail all the way. Was still in contention down to deep stretch before weakening in the late stages.