Secessio settled well in sixth place following a slow early pace and he remained in the position all the way to the 600m. He got a split between runners on turning for home but was tightened at the 200m before coming with a late bid from the 100m to grab a last stride win. Hoylonny was second last in the eight-horse field before Kerrin McEvoy made a quick move, due to the very steady pace, to take the lead at the 1000m point. He held a clear advantage at the 300m and was only caught on the post for a good second. The favourite Mulaqen travelled nicely in fourth place on the rails most of the way to the turn. He finally got into the clear at the 200m and then fought on for a close third. Permit was a handy third most of the way but was under pressure from the 600m and he then kept plugging on for (1.2 lengths) fourth after having every chance. Second favourite Destiny’s Kiss was sixth on the rails most of the way to the turn. He was travelling well but was blocked on straightening. He looked for a run on passing the 300m but was badly checked shortly afterwards, losing all chance and he then battled on for an unlucky fifth. *ANZ