LEICA PEARL (7) was a tough winner on debut at Waipukurau before producing another good effort when finishing eighth in a stronger field than this at Trentham 5 weeks ago. She is at the right level, third up, and will be among the hardest to beat again. BAY EXPRESS (1) improved quickly second up to finish runner-up at New Plymouth by a neck 10 days ago. He is peaking at the right time, and with the step up to a mile being ideal, he can go one better. FIRST EDITION (6) managed to break his maiden status at Tauherenikau last year and will be a lot stronger this season. He has had a couple of tune-up trials and should be ready to rumble, especially if the money comes for him. UNCLE KEN (5) did nothing fresh up over an unsuitable 1200m at Otaki and will relish getting straight out to a mile here. He is much better than the last run suggests, and can figure in the top 3 here. PIERCING ARROW (2) did not fire at Ellerslie last time out, but expect a form reversal here. Stick with him.