Horse racing fans get the holiday gift they really want by waiting until the day after Christmas when the Southern California winter racing season celebrates its traditional Dec. 26 opening day at Santa Anita Park. That date marks the start of a new meet and kicks off one of the country’s premier annual winter racing seasons.

Welcome to Noel Michaels’ Weekend Winners, the place to go for weekend best bets and spot plays from veteran handicapper and tournament-play pioneer Noel Michaels. Check back every week for a couple of highlighted selections designed to help you cash a few bets and make some money.