After a 105-day spell it was the Anthony and Sam Freedman-trained colt Elliptical proving too classy in the 2023 edition of the CS Hayes Stakes.
The traditional lead up for an Australian Guineas in two week-time saw the return of spring feature regular capture victory first-up adding to his already glowing resume.
He finished his spring campaign in the Group 1 Champions Stakes and wasn't disgraced against the older horses by any means.
His form against his age group came to the fore this time as his second placings in the Spring Champions Stakes and Caulfield Guineas prior to that have seen Elliptical finally get a much-deserved stakes win on Saturday.
Blake Shinn had no choice but to go back from the wide draw and get cover on this son of Dundeel before executing a perfectly-timed ride to secure victory in a blanket finish at headquarters.
He's Heaven was the pacemaker along with Tasmanian raider Bello Beau setting a genuine tempo throughout the 1400m contest.
Gallopers made their runs from everywhere with 400m to go as Elliptical proved the best to secure the win by a head.
Holymanz, Maximillius and Elkington Road have all run well into the minor money and lost no admirers going forward producing career personal best efforts.
2023 CS Hayes Stakes – Elliptical
The Australian Guineas looks the obvious target next time for the stable which Anthony Freedman alluded to in the aftermath of Elliptical's win. He also spoke to the maturity of his colt.
“We thought he was going well, he prepared really well, but he drew very badly,” said Freedman.
“We wanted to be strong late, if we won, that was great, so to get up and do it points to good things.
“I think he toughened up in the spring. He was a bit of a baby and we run him in the good race on the last day (Champions Stakes) not thinking he could win, but I think it probably played part in toughening him up.
“He needed to start winning and today he did – that's the obvious way to go (Australian Guineas) in two weeks, and then he'll probably head to Sydney and see what he can do there.”
Blake Shinn was happy for connections after going so close in the spring to securing a feature.
“It's very satisfying,” said a relieved Shinn.
“It's a nice start to this horses campaign. Obviously, he's got some lofty ambitions after today's performance, but it's just a great vote of confidence for everyone to see that the horse has come back and returned well.
“He was weighted to win today and the barrier was against us and the run wasn't ideal but his class shone through to the end and it's just nice to see he's got this stakes win on his CV.
“He's a lovely horse, he's by Dundeel, he's just got a great future ahead of him.”