In a surprise result the $61 outsider Kaiser Franz fought on too well to score here, his first win since a Benchmark 75 (2200m) at the Sunshine Coast last year. He had a good trip in sixth place, improved (between runners) from the 700m, switched to the inner on straightening and battled on a bit too well to grab a half-length win at the post. The New Zealander Zambezi Warrior settled back in tenth place (caught deep) before improving to be third (three wide without cover) at the 800m. He got to a narrow lead at the 200m and then fought on particularly well for a good second despite a very hard run. Favourite The Chairman raced outside the leader (Auvray), went to the front at the coming to the home turn and then battled strongly in the straight for a close up third, putting up a good staying effort.