Duvana, a colt who placed third behind Storm Boy in the Skyline Stakes last autumn, is still seeking his first win after four starts. He struggled in his last race, a Group 1 event on a very wet track, finishing near the back. Though his recent trial runs haven’t been impressive, he’s now racing on firmer ground and without blinkers for the first time, giving him a good chance to win with the experienced Nash Rawiller as his jockey.
Huon is returning to racing after last competing in March, where he finished mid-pack at Rosehill in a Midway race. This race is a bit easier, and he usually performs well when fresh, as shown by his solid 3:2-0-1 record. The son of Kermadec recently won a barrier trial at Warwick Farm and should get a good position just behind the leaders from the inside gate.
The unbeaten Wings Of Desire has been given a decent break since her win at Newcastle last month. As a half-sister to Winx, she made a strong debut at Hawkesbury in July and followed it up with another win, this time by nearly a length. This race is more challenging, with a wider draw and a longer distance of 1400m, but carrying 55.5kg and with Tommy Berry still riding, she’s certainly capable of handling it.
Tanglewood could be competitive in this open race, making his return after a break. The lightly raced five-year-old by Smart Missile usually performs well when fresh, with two of his three career wins coming over the 1000m distance. His recent trial win at Scone was impressive, and he’s well-positioned to get a good run near the front from the inside gate.