VENDABELLE (6) has shown ability this season and ran a solid fourth over a mile last time out at Avondale. She tries a middle distance for the first time, and in a modest field, she is the one to beat. ROMANIN (7) steps out to a middle distance for the first time this season, and she won't lack fitness with a 7-day backup. If this race has not come too soon for her, then she can figure in the top 3 here. LASER BEAM (1) had a fairly tough trip and found nothing in the run home at Te Aroha last start. He will be peaking third up, and if he can secure a soft lead, then he could take some pegging back. MOOLOO (8) has run the odd good race in the past, and it will be interesting to see her race on a firmer surface. In this field, she is worth including in all combinations. KENTUCKY SHINE (3) raced greenly on debut over 1400m at Avondale, and is bred to relish a longer trip. He won a poly track trial before his first start, and is worth another chance.