Tivaci was a surprise $17 first up winner. He settled in ninth place, just behind the leading group in the centre of the track, following a moderate early pace (first 400m 25.25). He moved up at the 200m, sprinted quickly to hit the front at the 50m before going on for a narrow but smart win, sprinting home in a fast 32.12 (last 600m). El Divino, resuming here for new trainer Darren Weir, raced in sixth spot, tracking the leaders in the centre of the track. He challenged at the 300m, got to the front at the 100m and then fought on gamely for second in a promising first up effort. The favourite Hellbent was a handy fifth, just behind the leaders. He angled for a run at the 200m, got through shortly afterwards and then finished well in the sprint home for a close up third.