Le Bonsir's first try at 1000m has netted a Listed win at Moonee Valley in a race trainer Mick Price had been using as a stepping stone to another sprint at the same track.

Price quipped he must be "a slow learner" after eight-year-old Le Bonsir overhauled his rivals in Saturday's Carlyon Stakes after settling midfield behind a strong speed in his first start over the distance in his 38-start career.

Le Bonsir was third in the Aurie's Star Handicap (1200m) last start and Price has another Listed race over 1200m at Moonee Valley in his sights with the gelding in two weeks.

"I know he's a sprinter but this was actually the run in between runs because he ran two weeks ago and four weeks (between races) was going to be too long for him," Price said.

"I just had to put him in here. He loves Moonee Valley."

Damien Oliver was riding Le Bonsir in a race for just the second time and had the gelding midfield with cover with the speedy Sweet Emily running along in front with Il Cavallo and She's Ellie also on speed.

Le Bonsir, who had his supporters when he firmed from $11 to $8, was within striking distance and after angling into the clear at the top of the straight he raced to a length win over Just Magical ($41) with Il Cavallo ($8.50) holding on for third another 1-1/2 lengths away.

The favourite Gregers ($2.50) was wide from her barrier and finished seventh.

Price said the race worked out perfectly for Le Bonsir.

"It was one of those races where there was a lot of 900-metre type of speed in it. They were going to go hard and stop, and he just landed in a beautiful spot. Sometimes these races work out where you're in the right place at the right time.

"A month ago I would have said I don't need to go to 1000 metres with him because he gets off the bridle too early, but just today's race worked out absolutely perfect."