Top weight (59kg) Cougar Express, who was having his fourth run since winning the Bunbury Cup (Listed, 2200m) in March, put up a good effort in taking out his second stakes race in 39 starts. He began well and enjoyed a good trip in fourth place, one off the rails before moving up strongly nearing the home turn. He took the lead at the 200m and then fought back gamely to score a good win. The favourite Falcon Crest, winner of all four prior starts this preparation, settled in eighth place. He improved well, widest of all, rounding the home turn, challenged at the 200m and battled strongly for a good second, just finding the winner (whom conceded him 4kg) too a bit good to take a sound second. Kronfeld settled near last in the 14-horse field, was still well back nearing the home turn, went deep on straightening and then came with late run to grab third in a photo.