Passive Aggressive is the early favourite, and who could deny the claims of a horse that has claimed Giga Kick as a scalp this preparation? The question mark for her is whether she is truly at her best at 1200m, or is 1000-1100m more her go.

The best work of Roch N Horse and September Run is usually reserved for the Flemington straight, but both have shown they are more than handy around a turn as well.

Chain of Lighting hasn’t been threatening in these races, and you wonder if she is more of a 1400m mare than pure sprinter.

Espiona is coming off a seven week freshen after her win in the Coolmore Classic during the Sydney carnival, but is another that might find 1200m too short for her liking.

Zapateo is having fantastic season for Godolphin with four wins at Group 2 and 3 level, and earns another crack at a Group 1 here. She will love any sting out of the track, but has come up with a sticky draw in a field of this quality.

Marabi is the interesting runner. Last year’s Oakleigh Plate winner has only raced once in the last 13 months. She was beaten 3.5 lengths in the Lightning Stakes there, but will be much better around a corner.

The three-year-old Ruthless Dame adds another dimension to the race, having been just shaded by Jacquinot earlier in the year, and following that up by finishing in front of In Secret at Group 1 level. She has unfortunately drawn wide again, but could be right in the thick of things if luck goes her way.

Selections: 1.Bella Nipotina 2.Marabi 3.Ruthless Dame 4.Roch N Horse