BAY RUM (1) was in the money first up at Fukushima Dirt then could only manage sixth last time out over 1900m at Chukyo Dirt. Rates highly and in very plain affair he looks the winner. NICHT ZU SEHR (5) returned from a break last start with a solid sixth, winding up late at the end of 1900m at Chukyo Dirt after settling well back. Should be doing his best work late. SYDNEY HOBART (4) didn't make an impact at his last run before going for a spell on November 15, finishing ninth and beaten 10 lengths over 2400m at Fukushima Dirt. Didn't come up last prep but if right can make his presence felt. PROVEN WINNER (7) last raced ten weeks ago when eighth and beaten 10 lengths over 2400m at Fukushima Dirt. Has more ability than that and is worth including.