FRANCOISE (9) sets the standard after placing third in the Listed HAGI STAKES at this track, beaten just over two lengths by Ippei at generous odds. She has already won on debut at Kokura and, although 2000m is new, her exposed black-type form gives her the clearest winning profile. KITTEN'S CRAFT (6) is the main danger, resuming after a Chukyo debut win as favourite over this distance and bringing a clean one-from-one record. SAIMON LEGACY (1) has not missed a place in three starts and arrives off a Hanshin Mdn win as odds-on favourite, with his 2000m record giving him a solid each-way base. TROCA ANIMADA (3) won over this track and trip on debut by a length and a half, so the substance is lighter but the upside is evident.