A field of eight horses competes in the first event and their tactics over the 2200m will be interesting. METHANE, a son of Pierro, leaves the impression he will appreciate the step up in distance following a sequence of solid efforts over the Valley mile. A minor gear change with the cheek-pieces replacing the blinkers and going up in grade with a light weight, should help him go well. BLASTOISE, the stablemate to Methane, has also indicated that he might be suited up in distance and he has been holding his form very well this term. I like the fact that he can settle in a prominent position as well, particularly given this event, like so many staying races in Hong Kong, looks devoid of runners with any tactical speed. If VINCY can find the form that saw him finish runner-up to Happy Sebring over the track and trip then he is a definite chance, but he gets back and needs a certain race-shape. GOLDEN SPECTRUM stayed on well over 1800m 3 weeks ago behind BEAUTY HAPPY suggesting he will be perfectly suited up to this trip. The main concern is he rises to 3.5kg in weight, which might take its toll. Off early prices there is some value with Methane and to a lessor extent Blastoise to win this.