By a Japanese-bred sire who now stands in Turkey out of a German-bred mare that resides in Japan, the 7-year-old gelding Mystery Island (JPN) carried the colours of Melbourne Cup winner Americain (USA) to a career highlight victory in the $300,000 Listed Sungold Milk Warrnambool Cup (2350m).

With the prospect of Group One glory both now and in the spring, Saturday looms as an exciting afternoon for Stephen Marsh.