Marksfield outstrips rivals in Bundaberg Battle of the Bush qualifier

Trained by Matt Kropp, and part owned by his wife Kate, the eight-year-old gelding claimed victory from barrier eight by 0.2 lengths over second placed Al's Briefs trained by Darryl Gardiner.

In third spot was the highly rated Bel Seleva from the Glen Richardson just 0.3 lengths away in the tight finish.

Marksfield had earlier in his campaign won on the Bundaberg track and started $2.50 favourite with experienced jockey Gary Geran in the saddle.

The pair got to the lead as they rounded the home turn, before coming back to the field, but kicked in time to salute at the winning post.

"It was a long drive to Bundaberg, but it was certainly one that paid us dividends," Mr Kropp said.

"It was a relief to get the job done early and qualify so we don't have to chase our tails to get him a qualifying start.

"This will now give us plenty of time to prepare him for the main event in Brisbane."

The Battle of the Bush Series comprises 16 qualifiers and began on April 20 in Gladstone. It will culminate in a $125,000 final for qualified entrants at Tattersall's Tiara raceday at Eagle Farm on June 22.

"The inaugural TAB Battle of the Bush Series was a game changer, not just for participants and owners, but for racing fans across Queensland who followed their favourite country trainer or horse throughout the series to the final," Racing Queensland's CEO Brendan Parnell said.