EXCELLENT EMPIRE (4) finished second two runs back at this track (Dirt) then improved last time out to score by 3.5 lengths as favourite over 1106m at this track (Dirt). Goes up a rung or two but he is up to the task. PURPLE OCTOPUS (3) hasn't made an impression lately despite market confidence. Last start could only manage fifth over 1106m at this track (Dirt). Among the leading chances. GRANDDADDYLONGLEGS (1) returned from a spell a month ago when he was in the firing line on the bend before being beaten 5 lengths into fourth over 1106m at this track. Has been in the money at each second up start. Fitter this time. Hard to beat in this suitable race. LAKE OF FIRE (6) is a distance specialist who turned things around last start and scored by 0.8 lengths over 1106m at this track (Dirt). Has his share of ability. Hard to beat again in this suitable race.