Glen Boss' decision to make an early move on Black Tomahawk in the Harry White Classic has helped the stayer to a Listed win at Caulfield.

Boss had six-year-old Black Tomahawk ($11) midfield in Saturday's 2400m race before he whipped around the field to take up the running.

It proved decisive as the Mike Moroney-trained gelding turned for home well in front before holding off a late challenge from favourite Excess Knowledge to win by a half neck.

"That was a 12 out of 10 ride," Moroney said.

Boss said he knew Black Tomahawk was a horse that could hit a flat spot so was mindful of trying to get him through that before the business end of the race.

It was Black Tomahawk's first start in Listed grade and notched his fourth win from 19 starts.

Excess Knowledge, the $3.70 favourite, got into the clear at the top of the straight and was closing fast with 2-1/2 lengths to Ethiopia and At First Sight which were in a dead-heat for third.