Royal Patronage has announced himself as a major autumn contender with a gritty first-up victory in the Group One Canterbury Stakes at Randwick.

In his second campaign with Tulloch Lodge, the well-travelled entire sat just behind leader Here To Shock ($8.50) before powering home to secure a neck victory at $20.

Magic Time ($4.40 fav) had a tough run, blocked at the top of the straight but fought on strongly to finish third, another three-quarters of a length behind.

Despite winning at his Australian debut in the spring, trainer Adrian Bott was unsure if the 1300m would suit Royal Patronage, but his victory bodes well for the rest of his campaign.

“He’s an incredible horse… the mile is his real sweet spot,” Bott said, with the Doncaster firmly in their sights.

Jockey Tim Clark praised Royal Patronage’s rhythm, saying, “I knew when I got into a dogfight late he was going to be there for me.”

Jockey Adam Hyeronimus was pleased with Ceolwulf’s fifth-place finish, noting the horse is ready to return to longer distances.