Bigger things are in store for Yoshi Boy after an astonishing last-to-first effort at Fannie Bay yesterday.
The Bob Richard-trained gelding looked gone for all money just before the turn in the CUB Class B Handicap (1300m), having been slowly away and sitting a long last during the run.
Race-caller Mick Stumbles even said: "and Yoshi Boy can't win from there, surely".
But rider Colin Haddon got Yoshi Boy's mind back on the job and he grew wings, overtaking his nine rivals in just a couple of hundred metres and coming away for an easy win.
It was Yoshi Boy's second Top End victory after winning his debut a fortnight ago and despite it not being the strongest field, he looks like something special.
"That was pretty exciting. He's always shown me something," Richard said.
Yoshi Boy will either head to a 0-63 race over a mile or go straight to the paddock to prepare for the carnival.
It completed a running double for Haddon, who looked confident on board Lynne Williams's promising three-year-old Golden Shekels in the opening event.
Niggle took out the feature of the day, the Sportingbet 0-69 Handicap (1100m), in a blanket finish.
Just two lengths separated the first seven horses, with Barry Huppatz weaving between horses to get the Stephen Brown galloper up in the last stride.
Tequila Midnight continued her terrific Territory form, winning her second race in three starts for Jami Huish and Carl Spry.
A change in riding tactics made all the difference as Sienna Diamond broke through for her maiden Top End victory.
Jason Manning's mare normally settles towards the tail of the field, but Simone Montgomerie went straight to the front from barrier 11 and looked a new galloper to come away for a comfortable victory.
However, the win came at a cost for Montgomerie, who will miss next weekend's Territory meetings after being suspended for causing interference to Stirrup Cup, Unmerited and Gloria when crossing down the back straight.
Story courtesy of Tom Biddington, NT News
