Nepotism, a two-year-old colt with ties to Black Caviar, has announced himself as a rising star after a thrilling win in the Champagne Stakes at Randwick.

Backing up his Group 3 Baillieu (1400m) victory, Nepotism, trained by Michael, John, and Wayne Hawkes, surged from last to first in the 1600m feature, securing the win by a head over Within The Law ($4.80). Tupakara ($16) finished a short half-head away in third.

The $3.90 favourite is by 2019 Doncaster Mile winner Brutal and out of Brigite, an unraced half-sister to Black Caviar and All Too Hard.

Michael Hawkes praised Nepotism’s exceptional turn of foot. “He’s just blistering,” Hawkes said. “Last to first, unbelievable.”

Schiller, who was aboard, said the colt showed tenacity to win. “I felt like he peaked at the 100m but he just had that tenacity to win,” Schiller said.

Nepotism’s victory adds to the Hawkes stable’s impressive autumn, following successes with Devil Night and Briasa. His win enhances his future value as a stallion prospect.