Kirklees was sent off the even-money favourite for the Sky Bet York Stakes on the Knavesmire and duly ran out a convincing winner of the Group Two event.
Frankie Dettori had the five-year-old settled in a handy position on the rails in second after allowing Tazeez to stride on following an early battle for the lead.
Kirklees kicked on two furlongs out and though Curtain Call tried to go with him, he was found wanting for an extra gear as Dettori's mount accelerated away to win by a length and quarter.
Allied Powers and South African import Kings Gambit made late progress to claim the minor honours, with half a length separating the pair.
Dettori said: "I decided to take the lead and kick on early. He's a class horse. We've given him time to develop and he's now a really nice horse.
"Perhaps, campaigning abroad, I think he'll win a Group One."
Trainer Saeed bin Suroor added: "I am very pleased. He has improved from his last time.
"It's best for him over a mile and a quarter and he could come back here for the International. He's good enough to win a Group One."
The Late Text Service gave Kirklees direct from the course at 1.10 pm, TWO HOURS BEFORE RACE..."had chat from someone from stable...says has loads of ability and expected to win...Dettori is confident"
Service available online http://www.barryrobsonracing.co.uk/ ...can you afford NOT to be on it?