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Souchez wins 2016 Hilton Stakes Listed $150,000 at Flemington (VIC) 3yo, 1400m.

Godolphin’s colt Souchez, having his second run this preparation, but up a really smart effort to score despite his difficult barrier (15). James McDonald eased him at the start and he settled in last place in the 16-horse field before tracking up behind runners from the 600m. He got a split on passing the 300m, sprinted quickly to hit the front at the 100m and then fought back to win well.

Inside Agent did not show any pace from his inside barrier (1), settled near the tail of the field and was shuffled back to last nearing the home turn. He fanned deep on straightening and then kept running on strongly (wide out) to take a very good second. It was only his fourth start, he raced a bit greenly in stages and should continue to improve with experience.

Man From Uncle, having only his third race start, also raced near the tail of the field after drawing badly (13). He improved (wide out) rounding the home turn, put in a good run to challenge at the 200m and kept fighting well for a very good third.

The favourite Niccolance settled back in 12th place from his wide barrier (11), improved (deep) from the 800m, looked a prospect at the 300m but then tired after a difficult trip to finish 15th.