The Anthony Nunes-conditioned Dontae added his name to the mix of contenders for the upcoming native-bred three-year-old Classic races with a fighting victory in a maiden condition race on Wednesday.

Ridden by Wesley Henry, Dontae rallied strongly to beat Radical, ridden by Omar Walker, by a nose in a driving finish in the 1,600 metre event.

At the off, Classic Man (Odeen Edwards) shot into the lead over a tight chasing pack of runners including Radical, Dontae, and Willodeen, under Jevvanne Erwin.

As the small field of eight runners sorted themselves out leaving the 1,200-metre, Dontae went through to lead withRadical slipping down into second position over the fading Classic Man.

Approaching the half-mile, Radical drew alongside Dontae on the outside and began to inch away when they made the turn for home.

Henry then took Dontae off the rails and positioned the bay colt on the outside and asked him to run in the stretch.

Dontae put in a strong effort to eventually draw alongside Radical, who refused to give up, but Henry kept his mount well balanced and Dontae got his nose in front on the line.

Proud Of Nuclear, under Dane Nelson, was a disappointing third as the favourite, while Subbie (Aaron Chatrie) got up for fourth place.

Dontae ( Fearless Vision – Eighteen Karat) covered the distance in 1:40.1.