Surge Ahead was too good for the well-backed Gallatin.

Surge Ahead went forward from his wide barrier (12) and settled outside the leader (Pompeius).

They then steadied the pace (first 1200m 1:16.32) before lifting the tempo after passing the 600m point. He got to a narrow lead half way down the straight, and after a battle with his co-pacemaker, he drew away to win by three quarter lengths.

It was his third win in four starts and he looks a most promising young stayer.

The maiden performer Pompeius led until well into the straight and fought gamely all the way for a most encouraging second. It was only his fifth start and it is hard to imagine him remaining a maiden for much longer.

The Darley-raced Gallatin ($2.35 fav) was eighth to the 800m point, he moved up wide rounding the home turn, challenged passing the 400m and battled well in the sprint home for third.

Kincaple Chief was eleventh to the 600m and caught the eye, running on well into fourth place in the latter stages.