SPEED SOLDIER (6) made it five victories on the bounce last start when he easily accounted for his rivals over 1300m at this track two weeks ago. Winning rider Eita Inoue retains the mount. Tackling an easier race so he is a major player. GARM CAT (8) turned in a modest performance when sixth last time out over 1400m at this track, beaten 8 lengths. That followed a win at Kanazawa at the previous outing. Nicely placed to take this out. HARDBOILED (11) finished second at this track two runs back but didn't measure up last time over 1300m at this track, finishing 6 lengths back in eighth after being in contention on the turn. Has the class to figure prominently. SUGINO MAJESTY (10) turned in a nice effort to score two runs ago but was less impressive last time out when ninth over 1400m at this track, beaten 11 lengths. Suitably placed so anticipating a better run this time.