Ben Melham proved time spent in reconnaissance is rarely wasted when plotting a wide course to win Saturday’s Barrie Kerr Handicap (1600m) at Flemington on the smart Chris Waller-trained mare All Cerise.

Having led to the home turn, Melham made a concerted move to come towards the outside rail before committing for home.

Melham got to a position three horses off the outside rail and All Cerise ($4 fav.) was always holding her rivals, defeating Vital Importance ($7.50) by 2 1/2-lengths with Ginali ($26) a long head further away third.

Melham said a walk of the course before the race convinced him going wide was the better going in the home straight, a plan he relayed to trainer Chris Waller’s stable representative on track.

“I thought it was the right place, in the straight at least,” Melham said.

“I spoke about it with Justine (Hales) before the race and we decided that’s where we would go.

“We got left alone and were able to set a steady pace. When we got to the turn I was able to come across without any problem and she did it comfortably at the end.”

A five-year-old daughter of Redoute’s Choice, All Cerise has won her last three starts in Sydney and Melbourne. – Sporting News