VENTO D'ARGENTO (3) is ready to step up to a middle distance after a couple of solid efforts to open his career. He meets a reasonable field, but he should go close to taking this out. NED KELLY (4) whacked away at Whanganui just over a month ago when finishing seventh. He is already looking for more ground, and can figure in the top 4 here. Stick with him. FRENCH THINKER (5) has looked much better in her last couple of starts, and she will relish the step up from a mile to 2000m. She has the pole position, and her first win is not far away. SARGENT (1) set the pace and faded over 1400m at Otaki 12 days ago. He should have no trouble with the extra journey here and should be in the race for a long time. Include in all top 4 combos. GIOIA MAGICA (6) hit the line strongly late at Matamata 12 days ago, and a similar effort will take her close to winning this.