MISUZU GRAND O (3) finished ninth two runs back at this track then improved last time out to score by 0.8 lengths after being in the firing line on the turn over 1200m at this track. Steps up a level but he is capable of another big run. SUAVE CHARLES (2) is back from a break of four months. Raced below par at his only appearance last prep when fifth over 1200m at Funabashi. One of the genuine hopes in the race. GRANDE MARE (1) is experiencing a long win drought, extended last start when 15th over 2000m at this track. Has the class to take this out. MAX (6) was beaten 4 lengths into eighth at the second run back from a break in a 1200m contest at this track at his latest appearance. Well placed to turn things around.