Kris Lees will lock in his final runners for the $1 million The Gong by tomorrow, but one decision has already been made — Tavi Time takes his place regardless of his tough draw.

Tavi Time has landed barrier 16, while stablemate Loch Eagle fared little better with gate 18 and is also under consideration for the Mooloolaba Cup (1600m) on the Sunshine Coast.

Lees will compare both races before committing Loch Eagle to one, but believes Tavi Time heads into the Group 3 Gong (1600m) with the right profile, even if he needs luck from out wide.

“Awkward gates, but there is a forecast for a bit of rain, so you never know with Kembla,” Lees said.

“It has always been the plan, the Big Dance into this race with Tavi Time.

“He has come on well, and he didn’t have a great deal of luck in the Big Dance.”

Denied a start in last year’s Gong and placed third in the consolation instead, Tavi Time has secured his spot this time thanks to consistent form and Cup victories at Scone and in summer company.

His recent runs have been sound, including his effort in the Big Dance (1600m) where he was only a few lengths from Gringotts despite a stop–start run in the straight.

Lees says the key to Saturday is ensuring Tavi Time gets momentum and an uninterrupted run.

“I’d suggest tempo and a nice, smooth run,” he said.

“Big fields, that doesn’t always happen, but if he can get the right set-up, he is always effective.”

Lord Of Biscay, who also ran in the Big Dance and finished ahead of Tavi Time, missed out on a Gong berth and instead lines up in the benchmark 88 support event.

From barrier five, Lees expects him to be well placed.

“He didn’t make the field for the Gong, but that race looks a nice option for him,” Lees said.

“He’s got a nice gate, and he has been knocking on the door for a win.”