This field includes a runner from Japan – Happy Grin – who comes from the NAR circuit in Japan and has a large legion of followers who have contributed to the cost of bringing him to Hong Kong.  He was 7th in the Japan Cup last year and his trainer is looking forward to his having another start on turf.

However the home team is very strong with Exultant looking the favourite here for Tony Cruz and Zac Purton.  Main challenger is likely to be Dark Dream especially if the rain continues and the track could be a bit on the soft side as it was when he won the Queensland Derby last year.

The brothers Glorious Forever and Time Warp are back again with one or other of them likely to lead and probably set a fast pace.  Their ability to settle will be the key to them being in the right place for the finish.