Missing a planned run at Geelong has resulted in a bigger pay day at Caulfield for the connections of Starsi.

The Darren Weir-trained colt led throughout in the David Hopwood Handicap (1400m) on Saturday to take out the $48,000 first prize.

Starsi was due to run at Geelong on Friday but he was balloted from the field at acceptance time.

First prize in the Geelong maiden race was $10,500.

"We were about 18th in order at Geelong on Friday and so we came here....what a day," part-owner Danny Molloy said.

Ridden by in-form jockey Chris Parnham, Starsi ($9) scored by a neck over Mail It In ($5) with $4.20 favourite Red Alto a length away third.

Molloy said the firm surface at Caulfield was also pivotal in Starsi breaking through at his third start.

While showers had been forecast in Melbourne they didn't arrive, resulting in Caulfield being rated a good three.

"He had disappointed at his last couple of starts and Darren (Weir) thought he was a bit better than that and he was today," Molloy said.

"If it was worse than a soft six we weren't going to come.

"We thought it was going to be hard drawn barrier 12, but (with) six scratchings this morning, coming out of (barrier) six and a good three, the Gods were good to us."

Starsi, by Starcraft, is well-related being a half brother to Diamond Oasis, Siwa Lady and Attica who are all multiple city winners.