MERIT BADGE (5) brings the strongest winning profile after stringing together dominant victories, most recently a CG Open at Canterbury Park where he was a short odds-on favourite and scored by over 14 lengths. The move to 1408m is new, but his record of two wins and one placing from three starts gives him the right platform. YACHT MASTER (1) was professional enough to score on debut at Churchill Downs, albeit narrowly, and barrier one gives him every chance to build on that early promise. KINGSIDE (2) has already done it at this venue, putting away a 1207m Mdn by just over two lengths, and he looks the other progressive runner capable of taking the next step. DORMIE (10) has been placed at all three starts, was second at this track last time and adds blinkers, so he appeals as the reliable danger with place strength and some upside if the gear sharpens him.
