The Bjorn Baker-trained Hollywood Hero (NZ) (Sacred Falls) followed the rail home under a perfect Dylan Gibbons ride to claim the Charity Challenge Handicap (1600m) at Randwick on Saturday.
It was the first leg of a double for the pair, who would later combine with Miss Kim Kar to win the last race on the card.
It was the fifth career win for Hollywood Hero, who is a half-brother to Group One winner Never Been Kissed (NZ) (Tivaci).
“Hollywood Hero is a strange horse as he just has to be completely switched off early in his races,” Baker said.
“I emphasized that to Dylan. He was on the same page and he was very good late. It is a big thrill and it’s always great winning a race at the best track in the world.”
The five-year-old son of Sacred Falls is being aimed at the A$750,000 Little Dance (1600m) on Melbourne Cup Day.
“He’s not in the Big Dance, but I think he has qualified for the Little Dance from memory though, so we definitely have something to look forward to in the spring. That’s a big race in it’s own right.
“He was an expensive Ready To Run horse for Ozzie Kheir and the team, so I am very grateful to train him for them.
“I am always hoping to get more horses from him. Hey Ozzie can you look at my stats,” Baker quipped.
Baker praised Gibbons ride, with the hoop making a return from a serious shoulder injury.
“He’s a good rider Dylan. He’s coming back off an injury and I am happy to have him back. He’s a great, great person and I have had a lot of luck with him.”
Bred by Waikato Stud, the well-named Hollywood Hero is out of the Savabeel mare Movie (NZ). A graduate of New Zealand Bloodstock’s Ready To Run Sale, Hollywood Hero was purchased for $600,000 from the Ohukia Lodge draft by Bjorn Baker Racing and Group 1 Bloodstock.