VALENTINI (5) returned from a spell two months ago when she was in contention on the corner before being beaten 8 lengths into fifth over 1700m at Hakodate Dirt. Course and distance winner fitter for one run back. Strong winning chance. MATA MIKANSAN (6) doesn't win out of turn, scoring just once from 14 starts. Did a good job last start to finish second over 1800m at Niigata Dirt, beaten a neck. Placed to advantage and can run a bold race. ASCOT VERT (7) returns from a spell of 11 weeks. Was safely held at the only appearance last prep when 14th over 1700m at Fukushima Dirt. Has a high cruising speed. One of the main contenders. KITANO EPIQUE UN (12) is coming off a last-start fourth, beaten 8 lengths, over 1800m at Niigata Dirt. Boasts a win and two minor placings from four starts at this track and distance. Sure to measure up.