MATETSI (11) was out of the money two runs back then again missed the frame last start over 1800m at Riccarton Park, beaten 3 lengths into fourth after being in contention on the corner. Has his share of talent. Hard to beat in this suitable race. CALIFORNIA GOLD (1) has been thereabouts since getting off the mark four runs back, the latest effort a second over 2200m at Ashburton. Has the pace to settle in the leading division. Will play a major role. UNLEASH THE BEAST (3) was an effortless maiden winner last time out over 2200m at Ashburton, scoring by 6 lengths. Is lightly raced and has plenty of scope for improvement. Must be respected now that the penny has dropped. A MANDARIN (4) improved sharply last time out to score by 1.3 lengths over 2147m at Riverton two weeks ago. Has her share of talent. Hard to beat again in this suitable race.