OVERVIEW: Tricky race, being a standing start over the long distance for trotters and not presenting with the most reliable form under the conditions. EMWALLEN (3) has the most upside, being a lightly raced 5yo, winning 4 from 12 including two solid wins when able to lead all the way recently. This is his first crack under standing-start conditions, which is a slight concern considering some of his rivals love the tapes, but if you’re willing to take the risk, his ability can carry him a long way. MAESTRO (8) ticks a few boxes, being the most reliable and adept under standing-start conditions, a country cup winner under similar conditions and securing the services of Chris Alford. He’s a horse who seems to keep coming under slogging conditions, so he can overcome the back mark here. AVANT GUARD (7) will appreciate facing this sort of quality, having raced better types his past few. He was a winner in similar class four back but under mobile conditions. He’s yet to win from the tapes, but this is his best chance. EL CONQUEROR (5) likes the stand and longer trips and brings a favourable SP profile considering the opposition here. He doesn’t win out of turn, but his manners and the opportunity to get in front of some key rivals hold him in good stead. There’s a host of others worth considering, such as SOVEREIGN TIGER (6), who likes this track and is a last-start winner in easier company, and NEPHEW OF SONOKO (9), who, although he prefers mobile conditions, strikes the easiest race he’s faced in a while.