Classic Uniform has produced a strong kick in the final straight at Rosehill Gardens to beat Red Excitement in the Listed Parramatta Cup (1900m).

Classic Uniform kicked back on the inside to beat Red Excitement on the line in the Parramatta Cup. Photo: Steve Hart

Classic Uniform had the notable advantage of only 53kgs in tow and immediately took up the pace after jumping well; leading Religify and Dark Eyes towards over the back straight and towards the bend.

Picking up the tempo rounding onto the final straight, the Al Maher gelding was joined at the front by Red Excitement and momentarily fell to second, but produced a big kick in the final 100m to win the race by a short head.

Apprentice hoop Andrew Atkins delivered a performance beyond his years to pilot Classic Uniform to success in the Parramatta Cup, but revealed that is was not all smooth sailing.

“Gary’s done a great job with this horse; he’s in immaculate condition and he’s tough and strong, and he’s hit the line really nice,” Atkins said after dismounting.

“They did put a bit of pressure on me for a bit which did annoy me for a few strides, but once Religify dropped off my bloke relaxed nice and he ran it out very well.

“Red Excitement was travelling well outside me, but they were both tough to the line and mine was just the better of them.

“He’s done a tremendous job with this, so a big effort to Gary and his team.”

Classic Uniform has been a strong and consistent performer for trainer Gary Moore this time in; finishing outside the first three only once through seven campaign starts.

Red Excitement narrowly missed recording his third-consecutive win at black type level, having saluted in each of the Group 3 Summer Cup (2000m) and Listed Gosford Cup (2100m) at his two most recent starts.

Seven-year-old Song And Laughter ran on well for third in the Parramatta Cup, but never looked a winning chance.