Overview
- Via Sistina powered away in the TAB Champions Stakes for her 12th Group 1, giving jockey James McDonald and trainer Chris Waller their 50th elite-level win together.
- Giga Kick prevailed by a nose over Magic Time in the Champions Sprint, marking a successful return after a year out injured under rider Mark Zahra for trainer Clayton Douglas.
- Ceolwulf took the Champions Mile in a photo finish over Pericles, with fancied veterans Pride Of Jenni and Mr Brightside struggling on the heavy track.
- Stewards penalized Ceolwulf’s jockey Chad Schofield with a $35,000 fine and an 11-meeting suspension for whip use and careless riding late in the Mile.
- The track was downgraded to heavy after persistent rain, influencing tactics and outcomes, and second favourite Tentyris was scratched at the barriers before the Sprint.