In tight quarters through the early stages of the race, Long John positioned in sixth before working clear passing the 600 metres. Poised on the bridle at the 400m, he quickened to an advantage when asked to extend at the 200m and galloped out powerfully to draw clear. Having tracked Long John in running, Weinholt remained resolute to finish second. Stablemate of the winner, San Diego gave his rider a torrid time when over-racing in midfield but still found plenty to come between runners for third. Fourth placed Resistant showed plenty of courage after being caught without cover near the pace. Close up in fifth, Rockford was unable to clear the trail until the 200m, and eye-catching with his run from the rear was Late Charge. *ANZ