SMARTICON (11) returned last time with a solid third at Geelong over 1121m. Hard to beat in this suitable race. ROYAL HILL (10) finished last campaign with a couple of minor placings, the latest over 1500m at Bendigo six-and-a-half months ago. Returns as a gelding and is sure to have come on following a recent trial. Among the leading chances. MAHMUDAH (16) finished out of the money on debut two starts back then was beaten 3.5 lengths when fourth in a 1200m contest at Pakenham a week-and-a-half ago. Finds the right race this time and can get the job done. ALVIN (1) is a genuine type with three minor placings from four starts this prep. Continued the trend at the most recent appearance when runner-up over 1200m at Pakenham. Best figures measure up. Sure to run well.