As is his style, Gentil Tonton settled toward the back of the field on yesterday under leading apprentice Sam Weatherley before they improved near the home turn.
A well-timed finish saw them score by half a length.
"Young Sam rode him a treat, he's not the easiest horse to ride," Bell said.
Weatherley, who had ridden Gentil Tonton on four previous occasions, was true to his word at Rotorua.
"When Sam found out we were getting the horse he rang for the ride and said he'd win the cup and he has," Bell said.
"We'll look for something for him now without travelling too far," he added.
Gentil Tonton accounted for Pump Up The Volume, the runner-up 12 months ago behind Jochen Rindt, who was a game third in the defence of his title.
- NZ Racing Desk