4:25am - MING DYNASTY QUALITY HANDICAP | 1400m | Group 3 | i

A group of nice colts and geldings, some of which will be making a claim for a start in the Golden Rose next week. The pace seems even, with Valentia, Panzer Division, Clover Lane and Meursault capable of leading. The O'Shea stable chose to restrain Meursault last start in the Up and Coming when he copped the backwash of some of the carnage Liberation caused up-front. It will be interesting to see if he does go forward this time - he looks hard to beat on 54kg if he does. Valentia also copped some interference last start and Randwick 1400m suits, but the 59kg could make it tough. Both of those gallopers will be looking over their shoulder to see if the big Washington Heights is storming home late. The strapping son of Commands is a huge talent and is sure to play a role in the finish if he gets the breaks. Other chances include Panzer Division (hasn't done much wrong), Lady Sharapova (on the up) and Tashbeeh (has talent). Brenton Avdulla will want to keep the ride on this guy. Can he produce a gem?