Ron Quinton-trained colt Royal Celebration followed his debut second in a 2YO maiden (1100m) on 17 April to progress in taking out this race, albeit by the narrowest of margins. He raced in sixth place, between runners, got into clear running on straightening, but raced a bit greenly before responding with a late bid to grab victory in the last few strides in a promising win. The Gai Waterhouse and Adrian Bott-trained Whiteley went to the front, got a break on turning for home, only to be caught at the post for the closest of seconds in a nice effort, resuming here at his second race start. Godolphin-raced Wagner, second at his only two prior starts, raced outside of the leader (Whiteley) and kept battling on well (under riding) for a close-up third.