Warrnambool trainer Aaron Purcell added a home-town highlight to his resume on Wednesday when Dashing claimed victory in the Wangoom Handicap on a rain-affected track.

The win sees Purcell notch up his third major feature at the three-day Carnival, having already secured the Grand Annual Steeplechase and Galleywood Hurdle in recent years.

Only the Warrnambool Cup and the Brierly Steeplechase elude him now, although he won’t have a chance at Cup glory this year with no runner engaged on Thursday.

Ridden by Tom Madden, Dashing produced a tough effort after the track was downgraded, overcoming a wide run to defeat Fortunate Kiss and Dubai Poet.

“He was in great order heading into the race,” Purcell said. “He’s not easy to place with his rating, but he just kept getting better.”

“When the rain came, it was clear being out wide might be the place to be. It worked out beautifully.”

It marked Madden’s first Carnival success, while Dashing recorded his seventh career win from 34 starts, with another 14 top-three finishes to his name.

Purcell is now eyeing longer races, with the Winter Championship Series at Flemington a likely target.

“He’ll be suited stepping up to a mile. Wednesday’s win was more like a 1300m race given the conditions,” he said. “The Winter Series is definitely in our sights.”