Stratum Star put up a strong effort under his top weight (61kg) in winning here. Having his first run since his victory in the Kingston Town Classic (Gr 1, 1800m) at Ascot on 3 December, he settled in fifth place from his inside barrier (1), behind a good tempo, before moving up nicely nearing the home turn. He got to the front on passing the 200m and then fought back gamely to score well. Feltre was back in ninth place, improved well between runners at the 200m, challenged at the 50m and then battled well for second. Payroll raced outside the leader (Show Command), got to the front at the home turn and kept battling well to hold the minor placing.