#2 Stunning Peach was touted last season as a leading Derby contender. After two luckless runs over the mile at Sha Tin and 1800m at Happy Valley this preparation, where he was unable to show his true ability, he now steps up to what should be his optimal trip—the Derby distance. #5 Bravehearts is thriving since joining the Mark Newnham stable and comes into this race with strong credentials, having won at this course, distance, and grade last start. He is far from finished yet. #6 Romantic Thor is improving with racing in Hong Kong. He placed third behind Bravehearts on his second local start last time and is one of seven four-year-olds in this race seeking to assert Derby claims. Blinkers are applied for the first time, a gear change worth noting. #3 Mickley presents as an intriguing runner on the seven-day back up. Since his first local win three starts ago, he endured a luckless run in the straight before closing into sixth last week. Testing the Derby distance for the first time, this outing will offer clarity on his standing among his peers.