Sound Proposition wins 2016 Manco Easter Stakes Group 1 NZ$200,000 at Ellerslie (NZ), 1600m.

Sound Proposition was wide early as a result of his barrier 12 and settled back of midfield with 1200m to run. Still wide at the 700m, rider Michael Coleman moved the Savabeel four-yearold closer to be in behind a bunched pack but when the field turned in they were forced to go very wide. At the 300m there were ten across the track and all were chances. Sound Proposition did not look like one of them but the further they went the stronger he ran and he flashed at them in the final 25 metres to win by a head, with several in line for the minors.

Trojan Warrior was forward of midfield (one off the fence) passing the 700m then pulled out into the centre of the track to make his run. Along with many, he looked likely at the 200m and held a slender lead just short of the line but lost in the last stride.

Rasa Lila was well back just before straightening and looked to have no chance at the 300m then weaved through and rushed at them over the last 50m to grab a very late third.