SPIRIT of Boom two-year-old Defiant Spirit, an eye-catching winner on debut over the weekend, is a good example of how patience from owners pays dividends.
When he stepped out for his first official trial back in December, he failed to finish.
Fast-forward just over six months and he couldn’t have been more impressive, winning a QTIS 2YO (1000m) at the Sunshine Coast on Friday, June 2.
Although eligible for easier assignments, Defiant Spirit ($9), ridden by Ben Thompson, bolted in by two-and-a-quarter lengths.
Stablemate Torque I Tee ($4), a two-time winner, finished second, giving the stable the quinella.
Odds-on favourite She’s A Rogue was another three lengths back in third.
“It was a great debut run,” trainer Stuart Kendrick said of Defiant Spirit’s win.
“He has been an immature horse and his owners have been patient,” he said.
“He trialled very well leading into the race and did a fantastic job to beat the more experienced runners.”