BLESS WORD (1) is back from a break of four-and-a-half months. Raced below par at his only appearance last prep when 14th over 1800m at Nakayama Dirt. Lining up today for the first time for trainer Kazuo Watanabe. Has good early toe so he should be handy in the run. Will give a great sight. MUT KURVE (2) went forward last start over 1800m at this track and held on well for second, beaten 0.8 lengths. Nicely placed to figure in the outcome. KEN ATLAS (5) ran on strongly only to just miss as favourite last start over 1400m at Urawa. Has race fitness on his side now. Meeting a deeper field this time but he cannot be underestimated. IL VENTO (6) improved last time out, finishing 1.1 lengths from the winner in third over 1400m at this track. Has his share of talent. Hard to beat in this suitable race.