Ceolwulf strengthened his case as the nation’s premier miler with a determined victory in the Champions Mile at Flemington on Saturday.

Making his first appearance in Victoria, the Joe Pride-trained gelding showed grit and class when lifting off the canvas late under Chad Schofield to overhaul Pericles in a thrilling edition of the $3 million Group 1.

The performance backed up his second consecutive win in the King Charles III Stakes at Randwick, confirming his place among the elite.

“He’s incredible. I’ve believed for a long time he’s the best horse I’ve trained,” Pride said.

“He handled the travel, he handled the occasion, and he showed everyone what he can do.

“We’ll be coming back here.”

Pride has already circled next year’s Cox Plate, which will be staged at Flemington due to Moonee Valley’s redevelopment.

Schofield had Ceolwulf positioned fourth the fence, tracking a strong tempo set by Pride Of Jenni. At the 250m he appeared beaten when Pericles sprinted past him, but Ceolwulf dug deep to overhaul him late.

Stefi Magnetica rounded out a NSW-trained trifecta behind the pair.

“At the 400 I thought it was over,” Schofield admitted.

“But when he saw Pericles go past him, he lifted. He’s a real fighter.”

Mr Brightside, the race favourite, put in a rare disappointing run, finishing well beaten, while Pride Of Jenni was under pressure mid-race and faded.

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