Hartnell was forced to work a little early from his wide barrier, pressing forward to end up settling in third position one off the fence two and a half lengths from the leader Fiveandahalfstar. He travelled well in the run on the back of Pajaro before pushing out three wide approaching the home turn. He was nursed into the race and quickly picked up the leader, hitting the front at the 250m before drawing away to a most impressive victory at only his second Australian start. Opinion settled down in third last position about ten lengths from the leader. He travelled well in the run and improved his position from the 700m before cornering six wide between runners. He was left a little flat footed on turning but stayed on resolutely to grab second in a bunch finish for the placings. He will appreciate a step up in distance and is progressing well from a Sydney Cup (Gr 1, 3200m) perspective. Hawkspur put in a much improved performance coming from last staying on really well on the fence in the straight for third. He is nearing his best form.