HO O BATTLER (3) is the top pick after stringing together a second and a win at this track, the latest a narrow but genuine 1500m success over Margot Deus when he was an outside chance in betting. His one win and three places from four starts at this track and distance give him the most reliable profile. ELFARIS (4) is the immediate danger, having beaten Maeterlinck by two and a half lengths in C1 company after a solid C2 placing, and she has also built a sound record at this track and distance. FUKUSUKE (2) was more decisive last start, scoring by two and a half lengths as odds-on favourite in C1 grade, with the winning rider back and a 50% place strike at this track and distance. NISHIKI VIVRAVIVRE (11) comes through a plain C9 sixth, but his season record and deeper 1500m experience keep him in the mix for a minor share if he rebounds.