#4 Lightning Bolt looks primed to strike again. Fourth-up, he has dropped enough in the ratings to make his mark at this level. James McDonald takes over after a solid fourth on the all-weather, and a trial win between runs adds to the appeal. #3 Colonel continues to defy his age with excellent form for the Mark Newnham stable. If left to dictate from the front, he will prove difficult to peg back. #2 Lyrical Motion faces a tough task from barrier 12, but his form holds up for this race, especially with Hugh Bowman returning to the saddle. #9 Telecom Power has been charging home late in his recent runs, but he will need to position closer to the pace to be a serious contender.