ELPEDRO (2) faced the starter for the first time and finished fourth last start at Hawera over 1200m, beaten 1.75 lengths. Will be better for that run. Leading contender. PALMAROW (7) returns after five months in the paddock. Closed the last campaign with a sixth over 1400m at New Plymouth Raceway. Hard to beat if back in good order as anticipated. OSCAR (1) finished second last time out over 1200m at this track, making it three career minor placings. Has a solid record at this journey, finishing in the money on three occasions. Should be prominent from the outset. Capable of testing this field. BUBBLES UP (6) wasn't far off maiden success before a break of three-and-a-half months, finishing the campaign with a minor placing over 1400m at New Plymouth Raceway. Nicely placed and can figure in the finish.