HEMISPHERE (3) brings the strongest blend of recent form and course suitability. His fourth behind Nkandla Gold in Open grade at Vaal was sound enough after firming into favouritism, and the previous half-length second behind Set To Music showed he was close to another win. The key pointer is his record at this track and distance, with one win and two placings from four attempts, so he is well placed to take control of this race. SERGEANT SOQRAT (10) is the main danger off a last-start BM72 win at Turffontein Inside, backed up by a solid RBH74 second at Vaal, and the 2.5kg claim helps his case despite a modest overall win strike-rate. HIGHWAYMAN HARRY (5) has been knocking on the door in BM84 and BM80 company, but the first look at around 1000m is the genuine question. DOG IN THE FOG (6) has upside after a firming-favourite debut win over 1000m at Vaal and gets weight relief, though this asks for confirmation against more seasoned rivals.