The Darren Weir-trained gelding The Passage, who was resuming after his debut third in 3YO Maiden (1200m) at Warrnambool on 16 October, scored a good first up win here. He settled in fourth place but trapped deep from his wide barrier (9) before moving up well (wide) at the home turn. He hit the front at the 100m and then went on to win comfortably.