HAKKINEN (1) finished fifth as the favourite when just over a length off the winner over a mile at Ellerslie 18 days ago. He is peaking at the right time and gets a lovely swing in his draw this time. On top, so follow your money. EL ARISH (4) was eighth last time at Ellerslie, and will not be hitting full fitness. He has enough early speed to lead here, and he can take them all the way. CASEMIRO (2) placed two starts ago at Ellerslie but faded out last start there over the same trip, when not having all the luck in the world. He is worth another chance. BILLY BLINX (5) scored impressively two runs back, then finished a close sixth over 1600m at Ellerslie, just 1 and a half lengths from the winner. He has top 4 claims again, despite copping a wide gate. KIND THOUGHTS (13) generally improves second-up, and with the aid of the pole position, she could be worth including in all combinations.