SMOOTH OPERATOR (7) made the most of a perfect run from just off the pace to score a comfortable win as the favourite at Riverton last time out, 3 weeks ago. He cops an extra 4kg for that victory, but from a good gate, he will go close to repeating the dose. WHAT YOU WISH FOR (5) tried hard when finishing a game fifth in the Awapuni Gold Cup at Trentham 4 weeks ago. He loves a wet track and has not missed a cheque in 3 starts over this trip, including 2 wins. Stick with him. SIR ALBERT (1) ran a much better race for second here a fortnight ago over 1600m, dashing home late to be beaten by a head. He won't want the track to be too wet, and he can run another honest race here. OPAWA JACK (2) has been racing well in the Central Districts, and if he can bring that sort of form in this, then he is a must for all combinations. RIVIERA REBEL (6) dug deep for second behind the top pick last time out. He has the right draw to take up the lead here, and he can go one better.