The Sam Barker-trained and Tayla French-driven Ultimate Vinnie led the interstate charge with victory in the second heat of the Cup in Hobart on Sunday.

After galloping out from the stand and losing a few lengths early, the gelding made a move around the field at the mile to find the front. Once in that position, he held off late challenges from Cool Water Paddy and Modern Bliss to win by a narrow margin.

The Ash Warton-trained and Ewa Justice-driven Modern Bliss also performed very well to finish third. After galloping out, Modern Bliss settled near the rear of the field and was saved for one sustained run from around the 600m mark.

The Michael Laugher-trained Courageous Saint finished seventh to also qualify him for Saturday night's final.

The three Victorians will have to tackle Tasmania's best pacers including Mickey Oh, Star Major, All By Myself, Gordons Bay, Cool Water Paddy and Jimmy The Irishman, who all performed well in the heats.

The Tasmania Cup is a 2579m stand start event with a 14-horse field. Manners will be crucial for the Victorian chances, with key contenders Modern Bliss and Ultimate Vinnie both stepping poorly in their heat.

Among the other Victorians set to line up on Saturday night will be mares Dream Maze (Allan McDonough), Heavenly Charm (Chris Svanosio), Major Fire and Tay Tay (Alex Ashwood) in the George Johnson Final, and the Ashwood-prepared Cemetery Bay in the LHT Cup.