This shapes as another great race going forward with some very nice prospects competing. WAIKUKU was just huge on a rain-affected track first-up in Hong Kong and he battled to the line incredibly well. The rating for that race is a little tricky given the wet track but he will strip fitter and should appreciate the 1400m. He is a big player, in fact to me the main player. ENCOURAGING seemed to grow another leg when having his first start for John Moore (ex-Freedman) and although the tempo suited his cause that day, he was dominant. He does have to lump 3.5kg more this time and is not as kingly drawn, but there isn’t a huge amount of early speed in the race so could find a one off position with the right steer from Whyte. Talking of stable changes, LADY FIRST has moved from Freedman to Ting and his recent trial was sound work. He is a Hong Kong maiden, but I would be keeping him safe in exotics especially given his handy draw. DIAMOND RHYME comes through that solid form race (226) with Mr So And So etc. He maps well, will strip fitter and looks another major hope for Zac Purton on the card.