GORDON Elliott may have had other major interests at home and abroad but Perth remains a hugely attractive and lucrative venue for him and John Monash ran away with the opening Black Watch Castle Novices’ Hurdle on Wednesday.

Already a winner twice at the course, John Monash made it three from five outings, having been allowed to start at 9/4 in the hands of Dickie Johnson. Traditional Dancer was made 13/8 favourite in the four-runner field but was headed two out, after which John Monash cruised away to beat Russian Regent by 31 lengths.