Gun mare Wink And A Nod further underlined her class when she posted a sensational come from behind win in the inaugural running of the Listed Idyllic Prince Stakes (1300m) at Belmont Park.
The $2.50 favourite gave punters a few heart flutters when she turned for home in second last position and appeared to have the task ahead of her after Rock Magic dashed to the lead.
But the McFlirt six-year-old, cooly ridden by Lucy Warwick, unleashed a superior finishing burst in the home straight to defeat Rebel King by just under a length.
Rock Magic, who raced a lot handier outside of the leader, Smoko, stuck on well for third. Cool Trade settled last before hitting the line for fourth.
Dion Luciani’s bold bid with Chantski, carrying a featherweight 48.5kg, failed to come off with the War Chant filly finishing last after racing wide early.
Wink And A Nod, prepared at Myalup by Justin Warwick, has been a revelation this campaign, posting five wins and two placings from seven starts since May.
The Idyllic Prince Stakes, named in honour of Jim Taylor’s brilliant sprinter, was her second straight feature after taking out last fortnight’s Belmont Newmarket (1200m).
“I didn’t think we were going to get there,” said Warwick.
“She was off the bridle for most of the straight.
“She hit top gear with a furlong to go and rounded up the horses who looked like they were going to beat her.
“She is a super talented horse with a lot of natural ability who has built up confidence and we are really enjoying the ride.
“There is the Farnley Stakes in 10 days providing she pulls up well and then we will call it quits.