A race for apprentices. GOLD MEDALLIST (11) was expected to need it but impressed finishing hard from the back to win an Echuca Maiden on debut. Has the rail today and the step up to 1400m looks ideal. She's in a sharp stable and in this line-up can take the next step. BRITISH POET (1) has to manage an awkward barrier, but there was a lot to like about his near miss at Sandown-Lakeside first-up. He's improved and just has to hold that level of form to be a player. IRREFUTABLY (7) deserved the 58 win at Geelong and then tackled tougher than this at Sandown-Hillside and improved her numbers again. She's been kept on the fresh side and maps for a soft run. In good hands and a chance to bounce. BATTAGLIA (2) was tracking well before a plain run last time on a firm track. He's likely to get conditions to suit today, and the 3kg claim is handy. Won his only start this course/distance and is a chance at a price.