Peko delivers Jordan Rolfe his first winner as trainer, apprentices win five out of seven races

Young horseman Jordan Rolfe celebrated his first victory as a trainer after former Victorian galloper Peko saluted at Mt Barker Turf Club on Sunday.

Rolfe saddled up his first runner less than two months ago, and Peko is the only horse in his stable.

The six-year-old sprinted home strongly to win the Albany Stockfeeds Handicap (1300m).

Apprentice Laqdar Ramoly was aboard Peko and it was a successful day for the apprentices, with Hannah Fitzgerald, Jessica Gray, Kristo Sardelic and Keshaw Dhurun also riding winners on the card.

Peko settled near last before storming home and grabbing the lead inside the final 150m.

The six-year-old won by 1.6 lengths over outsiders Amber Highway ($31chance) and Vital Boom ($91), while well-supported favourite Mr Mt Walker was back in fourth.

Rolfe, who is foreman for leading Perth trainer Adam Durrant, said it was a great feeling when his mare crossed the line.

“It was a big relief after being a bit disappointing at her last few runs,” he said. “We have the monkey off the back now.

“It’s a good achievement. I have aspired for a long time to be a trainer and to get my first winner.

“All my mates are in the ownership.

“It’s a good group and I’m glad they can be a part of the experience.”

Fitzgerald chalked up her first winner in the Great Southern after guiding Tramontane to victory in the Cartehil Public Accountants Handicap (1000m) for trainer Jo-Anne Leeson.

Tramontane crossed the field from barrier six to lead and kicked clear in the straight to win by 1.4 lengths.

Returning local apprentice Gray was able to guide 10-year-old Potent Secret to a 14th career win for trainer Roy Rogers.

Gray last rode in the Great Southern in February 2019 before stepping away from racing in September last year and then regained her license in July this year.

Potent Secret powered clear to win the United Mt Barker Handicap (1000m) by 1.6 lengths.

Wagin trainer Angela Smith preparing Danehill Storm to take out the Michelle Parsons Memorial (1100m), the final race of the day.

Danehill Storm edged out Long Knife Brother in a busy finish by less than a length with Athlone Castle back in third place.

Jockey Andrew Castle was suspended for 13 days after pleading guilty to a careless riding charge aboard Magnuson Man in race one.