Kourkam was ridden patiently by Kerrin McEvoy and settled in second last place in the 12-horse field, following a strong tempo. He commenced his move nearing the 600m, then made a quick (wide) run coming to the home turn. He got to third at the 200m and then finished too well in the closing stages to score by a halflength, in a strong staying effort. Verdant raced in seventh place on the rails from his good barrier (1) before getting a run through to be second on turning for home. He challenged strongly at the 100m and then fought on for second. The favourite Self Sense raced in second place, several lengths behind the leader (Olly I Am) who was setting a solid pace. He went to the front approaching the home turn, dashed clear on straightening but tired late after his early efforts to finish third. Queenstown was fifth to the home turn and battled on for (4.3 lengths) fourth after seeming to have every chance.