BLUE LACE (11) sets the standard after finishing a close second at Kyoto Dirt, confirming her readiness for a win third-up. She has one win and three placings from nine attempts at this distance, placing three times in four runs this season. APPAREIL (13) poses the next challenge, having been favorite at Niigata Dirt but finished fifth, two and a half lengths back, after being nearly four lengths behind T O Purcell at Kyoto. She's been steadily improving and has a solid winning profile. LITSEA (12) made a notable leap, finishing fourth to Maddux at Niigata Dirt, just under two lengths back, and that performance puts her ahead of Appareil from their last encounter, despite concerns about her distance record. RECADO (14) showed promise first-up, finishing fifth to Persephone, three lengths behind, but her three wins from five starts in the past year suggest she could be a strong contender if she improves.