CRITICAL HIT (6) is a distance specialist who finished fifth two runs back then improved last start but found a couple better over 1400m at this track, beaten 6 lengths. The engagement of Wada Joji is noteworthy. Has his share of ability. Hard to beat in this suitable race. NANSEI TIME (2) showed good early speed from the inside draw when fresh from a spell last time out, leading for home before finding one better over 1200m at this track. Expected to be in this for a long way. KITASAN UNISON (1) scored at this track last time out with 2 lengths in reserve at the end of 1400m. Has 10 wins here. Strong winning hope again. PEARL WHITE EVE (11) showed little early speed last start then picked up impressively in the straight to finish second at this track over today's journey. Goes well at this journey with two wins from six starts and is among the main hopes.