SECRET EMPIRE (8) is a distance specialist who missed the placings two runs back then improved last start but found one better over 1207m at this track, beaten only 1.75 lengths after being in contention on the turn. Well placed and there is no reason he cannot find winning ways. PAYNTED WARRIOR (5) scored at this track (Dirt) last time out with 1.3 lengths to spare over today's journey. Has a good record at this trip with three wins and one minor placing. Definite winning hope. AXEL STEEL (9) finished off last campaign with a fifth over 1207m at Prairie Meadows (Dirt) on September 7 and has since switched yards. Has a strong record when fresh with two wins from four runs. Among the winning hopes. DUNDIE (6) was in the firing line on the turn and finished second last start over 1207m at this track (Dirt), beaten 1.3 lengths. Yet to miss the placings in four starts over this course and distance. In the right race and is a key runner.