GENTLE BEN (3) hit the frame two starts ago at Wingatui but ran below par last time when 13th and beaten 6 lengths over 2000m at Riccarton Park. Best figures measure up nicely. Sure to run well. SHORT (2) improved sharply on his 13th two starts back at Gore with success over 2225m at Ascot Park two weeks ago, getting home by a head. Meets some better types this time but he has the ability to test this field. ARCTIC OCEAN (9) scored a barnstorming win last start over 2225m at Ascot Park, coming from the tail to get up by 0.8 lengths. Lightly raced filly who is starting to put it together now and a top-three finish is on the cards. A MANDARIN (11) was beaten 5 lengths into sixth in a 2225m contest at Ascot Park two weeks ago. Nicely placed to find some form.