Visiting Central Districts rider Johnathan Parkes made the most of an unexpected opportunity when he landed lightly raced four-year- old Trueman a narrow but deserving winner at Te Rapa on Saturday.

Parkes was pinch-hitting for the unwell Cameron Lammas who was unable to take the ride on the giant Keeper gelding and did everything right in a stirring home straight battle that saw the Ken and Bev Kelso trained runner score his second win from just his sixth raceday start.

It certainly wasn’t an easy victory for the gelding who was originally trained by his owner, well known Matamata conditioner Jack Tims, who transferred the horse to the Kelso’s after a bout of ill health. Having broken his maiden status on his home track at Matamata back in June 2016, Tims had put Trueman away for a decent break after he finished seventh to recent Gr. 2 Brisbane Cup winner Chocante at his next start.

A second fresh-up at Rotorua last month augured well for his prospects on Saturday and he didn’t let his supporters down as he fought tooth and nail after being clearly headed in the run home to secure a narrow victory over Sea Home and Quantum in the rating 65, 1400m contest.

Co-trainer Ken Kelso was taken by the performance when questioned after the race.

“It was a good tough effort by the horse as halfway down the straight I thought he was just battling away,” he remarked.

“He fought back really well under a strong ride by Johnathan.”

Kelso admitted he had some doubts as to whether the Slow9 rated track would suit his charge prior to the race.

“He had gone a nice run first up at Rotorua but we did wonder about the track today,” he said.

“He won on a Heavy11 at Matamata so we did wonder if it would be a bit good for him.

“I’m just so pleased for Jack Tims as we’ve only had him for two runs as Jack’s health wasn’t the best so he asked us to take him and the horse has delivered today.”

Kelso is upbeat about Trueman’s future prospects with the possibility he will make into a handy stayer.

“He’s a nice progressive horse who could go on,” he said.

“He’s bred to get 2500 metres and I don’t think he’s an out and out Heavy 11 type of horse. I think he can cope with the better tracks so he’s an exciting prospect.”