Sydney sprinter Mrs Onassis made the most of a late decision to contest the Oakleigh Plate with victory in the Group One sprint at Caulfield.

In a race of high drama, Mrs Onassis made her own luck to confirm her reputation as an 1100m specialist.

The mare raced outside Adebisi before claiming the front in the straight and she held on bravely under jockey Kerrin McEvoy.

Queensland sprinters Facile Tigre and Spirit Of Boom filled the minor placings.

Trainer Gerald Ryan said he had to be talked into running Mrs Onassis in the famous sprint by owner Gerry Harvey after he was concerned the mare had not been sharp enough in her work.

“Gerry said `don’t give up so easy’ and she worked that well on Tuesday we had to give it a go,” Ryan said.

The race started without the favourite Barakey who was scratched at the barrier after an incident in the starting stalls.