RHEIN GALA (5) went forward last time and battled on gamely to finish just half a length from the winner in second over 1200m at this track. Looks well placed so expect another bold performance. AQUA JET (4) ran well below his best last time over 1600m at this track, beaten 7 lengths into fourth at $5.10. Form here at this distance is sound with two wins and three minor placings from six starts. Leading contender. VERMEER (1) is back from a break of 11 months. Raced below par at his only appearance last prep when 15th over 1800m at Chukyo Dirt. Under the care of new trainer Masahiro Fukuda this prep. Looks one of the genuine hopes in the race. ALEGRANZA (10) was prominent at the bend and finished third last start at the first run back from a spell over 1600m at this track, beaten 2.75 lengths. Suitably placed so anticipating a big run again.