Delectation has caused a major upset in the Darley Classic at Flemington, beating odds-on favourite Chautauqua.

The Chris Waller-trained Delectation came from last to beat the Hawkes Racing star in a tight finish.

It was the first Group One win of the Melbourne carnival for James McDonald.

“It is my first Group One win for Chris Waller who has given me a lot of support,” McDonald said.

The field came down the grandstand side of the straight course with both Chautauqua and Delectation well back with Buffering leading.

Early last month Delectation ran second to Chautauqua and came through his fourth in the Group Two tab.com.au (1200m) a week ago in such good order, Waller decided to give him his chance against a crack field.

“This time last year he ran second to Brazen Beau in the Coolmore Stud Stakes and a month ago he was second to Chautauqua,” Waller said.

“He pulled up so well from last week we gave him his chance.

“He is just so good down the straight.”

Delectation ($14) beat Chautauqua ($1.90) by a short head with the same margin to last year’s winner Terravista ($9.50) with 2013 winner Buffering ($17) a close fourth. – AAP Turf