Brad Rawiller took time out from his celebrations to acknowledge Michelle Payne, who missed the winning ride on Sistine Demon at Flemington because she was committed to another horse.

Payne, who had ridden the Andrew Noblet-trained Sistine Demon to three wins, including the past two starts, stuck with Prince Of Penzance who finished unplaced in Saturday's Western Health Handicap (1410m).

"I feel for Michelle," said Rawiller.

"She was the first one to congratulate me pulling up.

"She's played a big part in getting the horse to this stage."

Sistine Demon ($7) was the first out of the gates and when he upped the tempo at the turn Rawiller was confident he could fend off any challengers in the sprint to the line.

"I was never concerned that anything would pick me up," he said.

"This horse is on the up and has improved this preparation."

A challenge from Longeron ($7) could not be maintained as Sistine Demon edged further ahead close to the line to win by 1-1/2 lengths with Floatmyboat ($16) third.

Trainer Andrew Noblet said depending on how the four-year-old gelding pulls up he will aim for a 1600m race at Flemington next week or a similar race at Moonee Valley in a fortnight.

"This is his right time of the year," said Noblet.

"He's fit and in good form and has a little bit of confidence now."