The Fred Kersley-trained Respondent put up a solid effort to score. He settled well back in eighth place, one off the rails, behind a steady tempo before commencing a wide move nearing the home turn. He challenged in the middle of the track at the 100m and finished a bit too well to grab a good win in the last few strides. The favourite Dark Alert raced in fifth place, one off the rails, got a split to challenge on straightening, took the lead at the 100m only to be caught nearing the post for a close second after a perfect ride by William Pike. Kia Ora Koutou settled well in ninth place, on the rails. He was under pressure nearing the 600m but he responded, getting between runners from the 200m before making late ground for third.