Poifect is racing for the first time since the Winter Carnival, where she had a tough run in The Roses. While 1400m isn’t her ideal distance, she did well over it at Flemington last time. She’s performed well fresh before and looked good in a recent jumpout, so there’s no reason she can’t win this race.
Commemorative is having her second run back for Godolphin. She was impressive in the Toy Show Quality at Randwick last month, challenging the winner Kimochi despite some interference in the straight. Though she usually struggles at this point in her prep, she’s proven over 1100m with two wins. She’ll need some luck from an awkward barrier, but with a trial between races and Jamie Kah riding for the first time, she’s definitely a top contender.
Place Du Carrousel is a top contender for the 2024 Underwood Stakes. The Freedman-trained Irish mare had mixed results in her autumn campaign, finishing strong in the Ranvet but easing up early in the Queen Elizabeth. She’s performed well in recent trials and should find this race easier.