The five-year-old has now recorded two victories and two second-placings in five starts with the trainer. He was winless in his first 23 races while under the care of Robert and Luke Price.

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The gelding was impressive in winning a tight battle with Kerry Parker's Genoveffa, the pair running down short-priced favourite Lama in the final 100m.

Speaking post-race, jockey Blake Spriggs said Tic Tock Man showed great fight to edge his rival.

"It was a super effort by him," Spriggs said. "It all worked out beautifully to be honest. From a terrible gate, we were able to get into a perfect spot.

"I was really impressed with the last bit, he fought off the horse on his inside and showed good staying ability. It was a really good win."

Parker picked up a victory in the next race, Misty Brook taking out a 1600m maiden plate in her 12^th start.

Also on Thursday, Nikohli Beagle claimed his third-straight win in a 1200m class three. Trainer Jarrod Austin will now send the gelding to the city.

"He's shown a really good turn of acceleration in all three wins," Austin told Sky Racing. "I was pretty impressed with today's win because he came in with a few obstacles."