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Ace High wins 2017 Aami Victoria Derby Group 1 $1,500,000 at Flemington (VIC), 2500m.
Ace High made it three Group wins in succession after taking out the Gloaming Stakes (Gr 3, 1800m), the Spring Champion Stakes (Gr 1, 2000m) and winning this feature in dominant fashion. He raced in eighth place, going a bit keenly in stages due to the moderate early tempo before improving well (wide) from the 800m. He moved up strongly (deep) on straightening, took the lead at the 150m and then drew away to win impressively in a very good staying effort.
Sully was outside the midrace leader (Weather With You), got to the front at the 300m and then fought on well for second in a solid effort.
Astoria had a nice trip from his inside barrier (1) racing in fifth place on the rails. He went to third at the 300m and then kept battling on to hold the minor placing after seeming to have had every chance while Pissaro made ground, without threatening, from tenth at the home turn for (2.7 lengths) fourth while Main Stage ran on from back in the field for (2.8 lengths) fifth.
Alberro made ground for was sixth and the maiden Wolfe Tone caught the eye in coming from last for (3.8 lengths) seventh in a most noteworthy effort.