Lightly-raced six-year-old Magic Weekend made an encouraging start to his campaign with victory at Rosehill on Saturday while three-year-old Aeronautical stuttered.
Aeronautical was sent out the $2.80 favourite in the Hall Chadwick Benchmark 80 (1100m) but was always well back while Magic Weekend ($7.50) was up with the leaders from the outset.
The gelding had not won since June 2010 and was readied for his first-up assignment with two barrier trials, winning the last one.
“He’s improved out of sight since his last trial,” co-trainer Michael Hawkes said.
“He’s had his ups and downs but he’s very professional and is an up-and-comer even though he is six years old.”
Ridden by Brenton Avdulla, Magic Weekend held off Vilakazi Street ($17) to win by a neck with early leader Mighty Obvious ($10) another 1-1/4 away lengths third.
Aeronautical beat two home, finishing four lengths from the winner.
“He got a bump at the 700 (metres) and overraced,” jockey Corey Brown said.
“He needed the run and I thought he went OK.”
AAP TURF