CARDIOID (11) was out of the money when resuming from a spell last start over 1800m at Nakayama Dirt, beaten 6 lengths. Has never missed the frame second up. Fitter so expect a better run this time. OKEN SILVER (7) showed good speed to lead over 2500m at Nakayama Dirt last start but faded right out of it to finish sixth. Ikuya Kowata has registered five minor placings when on board. Should be in the finish. RUN TRAIL (14) was last at the races when he finished 14th over 1600m at this track on November 16. Hasn't scored when fresh from a break but generally races well with two minor placings. Looks one of the genuine hopes in the race. VASEUX REINE (13) resumes. Didn't make an impact at her only run last prep on October 18, finishing sixth and beaten 5 lengths over 1800m at Niigata Dirt. Worth plenty of thought.