KNOCK OFF (9) will be chasing a hat-trick after a narrow victory over 1600m at Whanganui 3 weeks ago. He’ll need to be at his best to handle this field, but has the scope to get the job done again. PRIVY GARDEN (10) led the field before fading to finish eighth over this distance at Te Aroha last start. She found the track too testing that day, and is worth another chance here. Follow your money. TUMUCH (1) finished eighth over 1580m at Riccarton Park last time out, following a determined win two starts back. He has the pole position here, and his trainers are not here for the scenery. CHASE (3) hasn’t raced since winning the G3 Winter Cup at Riccarton Park over 1600m seven weeks ago, but has stayed sharp with a recent trial at Waverley. He has to be respected in an even contest. BELARDO BOY (2) is a tough gelding who won't lack fitness, and if the track gets really bad, then he can come into his own.