The gelding is trained by Shaune Ritchie, who was the strapper for the hugely successful and popular 1985 Derby winner Bonecrusher.

He made his case for that title when dashing well clear of the field early in the home straight in the New Zealand 2000 Guineas at Riccarton Park in November, ultimately holding all but the outstanding filly Katie Lee at bay.

But aided by a magnificent ride by Michael Walker, he again opened up a big break early in the home straight and determinedly held off all challengers to record an upset victory in New Zealand's richest race.

[3] Military Move began his four-year-old season in a 1400m Class 2 handicap at Sha Tin in Hong Kong in December.

Over a distance short of his best, Military Move dropped well back early in the running before storming home late to finish third.