1

Mr Brightside

This champion miler has won the past two editions of this race. Finished last in G1 Champions Mile (1600m) at Sha Tin in April but was a good second in first-up run in G1 1400m on 30 August at Caulfield. Always a threat.

2

Tom Kitten

Was fancied in the G1 Memsie Stakes (1400m) but was scratched at the barriers after becoming fractious. Has since had a compulsory 1000m jump-out. Is a high-quality galloper in a new stable and can make amends.

3

Antino

His run peaked at the 100m after racing wide from the 800m in the G1 Memsie (1400m) to finish 4.4L fifth. Has a good second-up record and will figure strongly.

4

Mark Twain

New Zealand visitor who won listed 2600m at Flemington in March 2024 and then resumed in August this year at Te Rapa, finishing last over 1200m. Coming back from injury and might need more racing.

5

Via Sistina

The newly crowned Australian Horse of the Year. Had a rare flop in this race last year on a heavy track before securing three consecutive G1 victories earlier this year. She resumed with winning the G1 Winx Stakes (1400m) at Randwick on 23 August. Clearly the one to beat.

6

Aeliana

Classy mare who is on the rise. Won G1 ATC Derby (2400m) by 5.16L two starts ago. Finished a narrow second to champion stablemate Via Sistina in last start over 1400m G1 when worked home strongly.