1

Ancestral Land

Formerly trained in England, this locally-based gelding booked his ticket with a storming late run in a qualifier for this G2 at the end of January. Has the measure of runner-up Muqtahem on that performance.

2

Chikappa

Has ground to make up on another Japanese raider Gabby’s Sister, finishing sixth behind her in December. A dual Japan group winner earlier last year. Best over this 1200m trip.

3

Igniter

This seven-year-old has run consistently without repeating that success at the highest level at home in Japan last year.

4

Jasper Krone

This six-year-old Japanese challenger has two lengths to find on Remake when this pair dominated the finish in a G3 in Seoul last September, and finished fourth again to Remake in this 12 months ago.

5

Muqtahem

Out of luck over 1000m at Royal Ascot in 2023 before his move to his current Saudi Arabian stable. Set sail for what looked an assured win in the qualifier here in January, before being hunted down by Ancestral Land.

6

Nonesense

Displayed good early pace in the January qualifier before being tapped for pace in the straight to finish fourth behind Ancestral Land. Made all when edging out Muqtahem in a 1200m at this track in November.

7

Power Of Beauty

Representing Saudi-based French trainer Nicolas Bachalard. Seventh in this race last year. Lines up in good form after slipping clear of the field in a 1400m contest on this dirt track last month.

8

Remake

Justified favouritism in this last year with a flying late run to lead 50m from the post. Then picked up a Korean G3 sprint before ending the year on a low, trailing home last of 11 in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint at Del Mar.

9

Saodad

On a four-timer after three wins but this Saudi-trained nine-year-old looks to face a tough task against this quality opposition.

10

Straight No Chaser

The one they all have to beat. Impressive when powering home in the Breeders’ Cup Sprint at Del Mar in November. Raced prominently there, comfortably picking off the two front runners in the short straight.

11

Gabby’s Sister

One for the short list. Lines up here in great shape after rattling off three wins back home in Japan. Has the measure of Chikappa on her last outing.

12

Halaa

Three wins in 2024 came over 1400m. Will be a surprise if he can figure at the business end of this test however.