LE BRILLANT (15) showed good early dash and raced on the speed at the first run back from a break last start before fading to finish 7 lengths back in fifth over 1200m at Kokura. Likely to measure up. SHANKS (5) returns from a spell of five-and-a-half months. Was safely held at the only appearance last prep when ninth over 1600m at Tokyo. Looks a winning chance while fresh. BLACK TINKER (14) was in the money two starts back at this track but couldn't back it up last time when 15th, beaten 10 lengths, at Fukushima over 1200m after being in contention on the bend. Looks well placed so expect a big run this time. MIENO BRAVO (10) turned in a fair effort at this track over 1000m at her last run ten weeks ago, finishing tenth and beaten 3 lengths. Among the better hopes.