Hot early pace from Nelson Bay, Mr Master Starter and Spelling Bee going hammer-and-tongs, with a few others keeping them honest. NELSON BAY (1) has won once and finished third once from four starts over this course and distance. He finished second of nine last start when resuming from a spell and will strip a much fitter horse today. From pole position can notch up his fourth-career victory. MASTER JOSH (8) won a good race in his last start over 1200m. He has won once and finished second three times from six starts over this distance. He is in a good space and merits healthy respect. TSAR BOMBA (5) hails from the visiting Johan Janse van Vuuren stable. He finished third in his only attempt over this distance. Gavin Lerena steps back into the saddle and he should give another good account of himself. MR MASTER STARTER (2) progressed nicely last time out at the second run of the prep to finish third over 1400m at Greyville All Weather. Tackling a deeper field this time but he is good enough to figure in the finish.