The in-form five-year-old, Scouting Wide ($5.50) proved himself as a genuine stayer when he held on to defeat his seven rivals in the 2400m test, after setting a rapid pace straight from the gates.

The Chris Waller-trained outsider Bright Mind ($21) was a neck back as runner-up, three lengths ahead of the favourite at $2.20, Bart Cummings’ Star Ripper in third.

Scouting Wide’s career record now stands at three wins from 11 career starts for over $180 000 in prizemoney.

Scouting Wide is by the legendary Cambridge sire, Zabeel who has now sired 122^nd stakes winners.

Eight quality races were conducted on the day and other wins included Zampara in race three, the Tony and Manera Lahood Handicap (2000m). The lightly raced seven-year-old gelding will now be aimed at the Group 3 Summer Cup (2400m) on Boxing Day where he might come up against Christmas Cup winner Scouting Wide.

2009 Christmas Cup Results: