They are by far the best credentialled in the outstanding field which has all the quality of a grand circuit event.

And the Ballarat Pacing Cup is a race in which the cream has tended to rise to the top.

While the winner seems likely to come out of this trio, such is the depth of talent on show nothing would surprise.

The emerging Te Kanarama, Flashing Red and Howard Bromac stand as the best prospects outside the trio.

As the likely leader, Sokyola is the one to run down.

Boasting an incredible 63 wins in 115 starts and $1.64 million in stakes, Sokyola has had a phenomenal run in the past two seasons with two Miracle Mile wins, an all-the-way win in this year's Victoria Cup and earnings of $1.2m.

There have been none better than the eight-year-old, which has given Melton trainer-driver Lance Justice the experience of a lifetime.

Sokyola finished second to New Zealander Just An Excuse in the Ballarat Pacing Cup last year and again the Kiwis loom as his main dangers in the form of the Young Rufus and Mister DG.

Another millionaire, Young Rufus appeared set for greatness a couple of years ago.

Having captured the 2002 Ben Hur in Sydney, all seemed before him when he saluted in the 2003 Victoria Cup at Moonee Valley and was favourite for the Inter-Dominion Pacing Championship.

Unfortunately, illness almost cost his life before the series. While he survived, his racing career seemed over.

However, seeing Young Rufus fit again was too much for leading NZ trainer-driver Mark Purdon to resist and the seven-year-old entire is now back mixing it with the best.

And as his last-start win in the group one $100,000 South Australian Pacing Cup showed, Young Rufus is again a force to be reckoned with.

Purdon will take the race right up to Justice, as he has already this season.

Mister DG is well known to Australian harness racing goers, with trainer Tim Butt having campaigned the tough son of champion mare Blossom Lady this side of the Tasman Sea extensively over the past three seasons.