RULE THE WAVE (2) is a talented type who has missed the place just once when in Grade 1 company. Raced on the speed when resuming last start and battled on well but found one better over 1500m at this track. Top chance in a nice race for her. MONOPOLIO (4) is a progressive galloper who is first-up since finishing fifth over 1600m in the G3 Nikkan Sports Sho Shinzan Kinen at Kyoto seven months ago which was the only run of that prep. Has scored first-up from a spell before. Winning rider Christophe Lemaire stays aboard. Well placed and should be in the finish. MOR NIKE (6) kept coming only to just miss when fresh from a spell last start over 1500m at this track. Will strip a lot fitter this time around. Placed to advantage so expect another big run. BEAR SANAECHAN (14) turned in a nice effort to score two runs ago but was less impressive last time out when fourth over 1800m at Hakodate, beaten 4 lengths. Likely improver with top-three prospects.