Just two interstate raiders ventured to Hobart for the Listed The Mills Thomas Lyons Stakes (1400m) on Sunday, with Phillip Stokes claiming the victory with More Than Exceed, a $260,000 Magic Millions purchase from the Newgate draft in 2017.

The 6yo son of More Than Ready (USA) was winning for the first time since capturing the Mildura Cup at Swan Hill in July 2020.

More Than Exceed started just three times in 2021 and crossed the Tasman following a troubled sixth in the Listed John Dillon Stakes at Caulfield on January 26.

Given a positive ride by Ismail Toker, More Than Exceed hit the front a long way out, but found plenty under pressure in the closing stages to win by a neck over the 2020 Lyons Stakes winner Mandella Effect.

More Than Exceed advances his record to nine wins, seven seconds and a third from 36 starts with earnings of $475,650.

Bred by Raffles Dancers, More Than Exceed is the second foal of stakes-placed Exceed And Excel mare Exceedingly Regal, who has a troubled breeding history.

Out of a half-sister to Group I VATC One Thousand Guineas winner Lady Of The Pines, Exceedingly Regal did not have a live foal for four seasons before foaling a Flying Artie colt in 2020.