BAKURETSU MAHO (1) is the top pick on set-up rather than recent finishing position, with the quick back-up, third-up profile, weight relief and proven 820m record all pointing her way. The latest eighth behind Smash Hit reads plain, but she has three wins and four placings from 18 starts at this track and distance, which is the strongest specialist profile among the main hopes. CHIEF IN THE SKY (7) brings the better immediate form after winning a C2 over 1230m from Allenatore, and his consistency keeps him a genuine danger, although his 820m record remains the obvious reservation. CELERITAS (5) was sound first-up when third, beaten a length and a half by Fairy Taizan, and his overall record of two wins and two placings from six starts gives him upside second-up. AKKESHI (8) has been attacking the line well over 1230m, most recently second to Isla Azul, but is unplaced from two attempts at around this distance and profiles more as a strong place hope than a clear winning play.