Consistent Hawkes-trained five-year-old Mecir was ridden quietly by James McDonald from his difficult barrier (11) and settled just past midfield, wide with cover. He was giving the leader about seven lengths at the 600m, switched out on straightening and put in a good run passing the 200m. He got to a narrow lead at the 100m and battled gamely on his limit weight (54 kg) to win by a neck. The favourite Strawberry Boy was taken to the front by Jim Cassidy, who was then able to set a reasonable tempo (first 800m 48.26). He looked a strong chance when still in front at the 200m and was only run down nearing the post for second. The Kris Lees-trained French import Slow Pace was back about ninth, between runners. He improved wide with cover rounding the home turn, looked a threat when he challenged at the 200m and battled on well for a sound first-up third at this Australian debut. Kaypers was near last on the rails to the 600m. He got along the rails half-way down the straight and fought on for a close-up fourth. The stayer Maluckyday, now with the Joe Pride stable, was a clear last in the 14-horse field to the turn. He switched wide at the 300m and caught the eye, running on late for fifth, beaten only one length. Reparations was second last to the 600m, was blocked on straightening and came with a late run for sixth, beaten only a length and a quarter while Rain Drum raced outside the leader, challenged at the 200m and battled on for seventh after seeming to have every chance. *ANZ