Elizabeth Darci Race 8 Riccarton Park October 23

From a clear last, she motored home for sixth in the second best last 200 metres of the race. Looks hard to bet against an easier field next-up.

Lincoln King Race 10 Riccarton Park October 23

After just going down in the New Zealand Cup last year, he looks right on track to go one better this year. His last 200m was the second best in the race and he was just warming up. The blinkers going on helped and the $11 on offer now will look real value on the big day.

Halston Race 1 Te Rapa October 25

From midfield, he closed off strongly for second in the second best sectionals and looks every bit a nice stayer in the making. Half-brother to the very good On The Rocks.

Malt Time Race 4 Te Rapa October 25

He looks set to repeat his win second-up from his last campaign, the way he charged late for second in the best sectionals of the race. Being held up made it all the more meritorious.