It is the first time Peter Manning has tasted success in the Maori Legend, but daughter Kerryn Manning took the title in 2006 with Donttellmehetrots.

Manning had two opportunities to win the Maori Legend this year with Majestic Jess also running.

Having just one start prior to the race the Manning stables were quietly confident that Sisulu Success would do well if everything went right.

"His form has been okay I think," driver Matt Craven said.

"He had a pretty good run at Maryborough and won a trial at Ararat, but he did really well today."

At Maryborough, Sisulu Success ran well, but got caught up in traffic to finish sixth.

After a false start at Stawell, Sisulu Success got away well at the second attempt and settled into position behind the leader.

"It was a nice run in behind the leader," Craven said.

"He is a bit funny around the turns. He is safe enough, just a bit strange."

Sisulu Success was able to find a clear passage down the back straight the last time, when the horse in front started to tire.

The two year old gelding sprinted clear and hit the line hard to win by just over a metre, recording a mile rate of 2.09.2.

In what was a much slower race than others on the day, the fastest quarter was the third at 30.5.

"His manners probably won him the race today," Craven said.

Sisulu Success finished ahead of Geoff Walker trained duo Glenferrie Burn and Glenferrie Belle.

Peter Manning has no immediate plans for Sisulu Success.