Old Masters ran a very close third to Miewa's Quest in the Betfair Open Handicap on Launceston Cup Day. 

Old Masters carried 54.5kgs and from barrier five, with jockey Brendan McCoull on board gave connections a reason to cheer when he hit the front 200m from the finish.  

"I thought he looked the winner turning for home, but Miewa's Quest is a very good horse and I was happy with the way Old Masters kept finding the line", trainer Bill Ryan said following the race.

Old Masters was racing second up and hasn't missed a place so far this preparation.  

"I will see how he pulls up and look for a similar race in the next few weeks, which I am sure he will be very competitive in".

Old Masters boxing away in the middle to finish a close third

Photo courtesy of Bill Hayes Photographics