Australian champion LEAP TO FAME (8) has copped the visitor's draw but has been the benchmark across the Tasman in recent seasons and looks to be going as well as ever, his only two defeats this campaign coming with brave seconds from poor draws. He has proven that he is classy and tough enough to work and win at the highest level. Can call on those qualities to win at his NZ debut. Rising star and Inter Dominion hero DON HUGO (2) arrives off four straight wins and took advantage of this draw to beat LEAP TO FAME in the Miracle Mile two back. The right marble gives him the chance to topple the champ again. REPUBLICAN PARTY (3) draws much better than in his two starts since returning from Australia and got very close to LEAP TO FAME when placed in the Hunter Cup three back, beating DON HUGO home. Must respect that form line. Last year's winner MERLIN (7) has a great record here and looks ready to peak on the right night again after a terrific second from the back row last start.