In a surprise result the Tony Cruz-trained Blazing Speed broke through for his first win since taking out the QE11 Cup (Gr 1, 2000m) at this track in April last year in scoring in a three-way finish. He had a nice trip in fourth place, one out and one back, before moving up well rounding the home turn. He challenged at the 100m and then fought a bit too well to score a narrow but good win. Victory Magic travelled well in sixth place, one off the rails, improved nicely on straightening and then put in a strong run, finishing well for a close second in a smart effort. The short-priced favourite Werther began well and then eased to get a good run behind the leader (Helene Happy Star). He got into clear running at the 300m, briefly looked the winner when he got to a narrow lead at the 150m but then battled well, holding on for a close-up third, possibly not being quite as effective stepping up to 2400m here after his recent two Group One victories at this track over 2000m. Designs On Rome was second last in the eight-horse field to the 800m, improved well at the 600m and kept running on nicely, without threatening in the straight, for a sound fourth. Helene Happy Star led the field, dashed clear on turning for home, and only weakened over the latter stages fifth after running a bold race.