NASTY WEATHER (3) returns from a spell of six months. Was safely held at the only appearance last prep when tenth over 1200m at Niigata Dirt. Lining up today for the first time for trainer Hidemitsu Sakai. Should be poised just off the lead. Leading contender. VICTIPHARUS (9) closed off strongly last start to get up for second, beaten 0.8 lengths, over 1800m at Funabashi when coming back from a spell. Can measure up. HERO CALL (12) finished 13th two runs back then improved last start but found a couple better over 2100m at Kawasaki, beaten 5.5 lengths. Finds a suitable race and can find winning form. MOUNTAIN LAUREL (5) gave away a considerable start over 1800m at Funabashi last time before hitting the line well to finish fourth. Among the chances and will be tough to stop.