FESTIVE BEAM (4) sets the standard after a nose defeat at Hanshin, where he led until late despite being an outside bet. His overall winning record is modest, and he has a mixed 3000m profile, but one placing from three attempts is enough support, making that last run the strongest recent form. GRAND NAVIRE (6) poses a clear threat with four placings from six starts in the last year, finishing second again at this track last time, but was beaten by eight lengths as the favorite. NOBLE CRY (2) has class after ALLOW runs, and his Niigata fifth two back was stronger than it looks. The new stable and race fitness keep him in the hunt. SOLIDARITY (8) returns from a poor last-start showing, but overall, his profile is better than most, and a sixth at Hanshin two runs ago suggests he could be a value danger if he comes back in good order.