LORD FILER (18) is the horse to beat despite the wide draw, having put together wins at Chukyo and Niigata this campaign and backed them with a strong overall profile of three wins and two placings from six starts. His latest success over 2200m came by just under two lengths from Black Olympia, and his record around this distance is already convincing. CHERNOBOG (4) appeals as the main danger after a sound first-up fifth at Hanshin, beaten only a length and a half, with his proven 2000m record and strong Kyoto figures adding substance. FIRM TWENTY (12) was second to Joy Boy at Hanshin last start at generous odds and has been highly consistent this season, although his 2000m record is more place-heavy than winning. LADY MYKONOS (3) brings a sharp last-start second to Cor Leonis and strong track statistics, but she is trying 2000m for the first time, which keeps her just behind the top trio.