Three-year-old Mark Kavanagh-trained colt Vero Beach scored an easy first-up win, resuming after his promising debut fourth in the St Albans Stakes (Listed, 1200m) at Moonee Valley in March last year. He raced outside the leader, went to the front nearing the 600m and then went right away in the straight to win by seven lengths. Granted he only beat five rivals in the small field but it was an impressive effort. *ANZ