The Anna Clement-trained Tavis Court kept his impressive form line intact on Thursday when winning the Sandford Brothers 1400 at Hawera.

The son of Tavistock extended his record to two wins and three runner-up performances from five starts, but had to work hard to secure his second victory on the Heavy11 track.

Jockey Lisa Allpress elected to press forward for the lead from their wide barrier (13) and the pair were able to take control of the race, going clear of their rivals at the turn of the straight.

However, Tavis Court began to tire in the concluding stages of the race, but managed to hang on for a 1-1/2 length victory over Beckidboo, with Manolo a further 1-1/4 lengths back in third.

Allpress was pleased with the win, but believes the gelding is suited to better tracks.

“He didn’t jump away and travel as well as what I thought he would,” she said.

“Once we were halfway down the back, I was always going to be wide, I just let him roll along a bit more and then he crossed them really easily.

“It was a good result in the end because he did work hard, but he really did tie up that last bit. I don’t think he is a genuine heavy tracker.

“His maiden win was on a slow track at Waverley. I think on a better track he will be a nice horse.”