Amade has won a thrilling Geelong Cup in cold and wintry conditions at Breakwater.
The 33/1 outsider stormed home to win the 2400m event from Ashrun in second place, Sir Lucan third and Mr Waterville fourth.
Ridden by Zac Spain and trained by Phillip Stokes, Amade can now compete in the Melbourne Cup in 13 days time if connections decide to pursue that option.
Spain said the wet track was always going to suit his ride “being an older horse”.
“The sting out of the track was always going to help him,” he said.
Amade carried a weight of 54kg for the race. A photo finish was needed to decide the placegetters.
Animal rights protesters from the Coalitions for the Protection of Racehorses and the Animal Justice Party were outside the main entrance saying they opposed horse racing and the Geelong Cup.
MORE TO COME