Consistent Gerald Ryan-trained sprinter Deploy returned after racing well in Queensland in June to score a good win here. He began quickly before easing to settle in fourth place, one out and one back. He got to a narrow lead at the 200m and then fought gamely for a narrow but very good win. The Virginian settled in fifth place on the rails, switched out at the 300m and then ran on well for a good second. Burning Passion raced outside the leader (That’s A Good Idea), briefly got to the front at the 200m and then held on well for a close-up third. That’s A Good Idea led the field to the 200m before finishing (1.6 lengths) fourth. The favourite Omei Sword missed the start and made late ground, in the sprint home, for a sound first up (2.3 lengths) fifth, while Group One winning colt Invader was also well back and made ground without threatening for (2.4 lengths) sixth, also being disadvantaged by the fast sprint home.