G1 – 2000m – Turf
| 1 | El Vencedor | He’s the new star of New Zealand racing. He’s won his past two G1 assignments in easy fashion which were the Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) at Te Rapa when he led throughout on 8 February. Then 14 days later he outclassed his rivals to win the Otaki-Maori Classic (1600m) here. |
| 2 | Whangaehu | Racing in career best form having emerged from handicaps to taking on the best in the land. Finished on well for 3.5L 3rd in the G1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) on 8 February behind El Vencedor. |
| 3 | Meaningful Star | Veteran who has struggled in this class at his past three starts after winning successive races including a G3. At his last run he finished 7.4L 9th to El Vencedor in the G1 Otaki-Maori Classic (1600m) here on 22 February. |
| 4 | Wolfgang | Top stayer racing in good fashion but he’s going to battle in this class. Two starts ago he won the G3 Wellington Cup (3200m) and then last start he finished 2nd in a 2000m Listed race at Matamata on 15 February. |
| 5 | Midnight Blue | Veteran racing consistently in easier grade but is going to find this hard. Last start 1.1L 4th in the G3 Avondale Cup (2400m) to Blue Sky At Night on 22 February. |
| 6 | La Crique | Top class mare with three wins and six seconds from her past nine starts. No match for El Vencedor when beaten 3L by him in the G1 Herbie Dyke Stakes (2000m) on 8 February. |
| 7 | Orchestral | Thrived as a 3yo who is racing well as an older horse. Big win two starts ago against her own age over 1600m here was followed with a 3.3L 3rd in the G1 Otaki-Maori Classic (1600m) behind El Vencedor. Big chance. |
| 8 | Qali Al Farrasha | Classy mare who has chalked up four consecutive seconds since her win over 1400m at this track. Her last two starts have been at G1 level which were in the Thorndon Mile (1600m) and then last start behind El Vencedor in the Otaki-Maori Classic (1600m) at Ellerslie on 22 February. Take beating. |
