It's never too late to make an impact in racing. Just ask apprentice Geoffrey Goold.

The 30-year-old celebrated his first Saturday winner in Brisbane when he rode rejuvenated sprinter Delago Pilli to a last-to-first win in the Racing Retro Handicap (1350m) at Doomben.

"I've always been in the business from an early age when my father owned racehorses and trotters when we were in New Zealand," Goold said.

"I wanted to give riding a go when I was younger but dad is a very well educated man and he tried to steer me towards a tertiary education which I did begrudgingly.

"But once racing is in your blood you find your way back into it in some capacity."

Goold said winning aboard Delago Pilli was especially satisfying because of his close friendship with trainer Graham Pollock.

"We've known each other for quite a few years now and we're both reaping the rewards which makes it even more special," Goold said.

Pollock has transformed Delago Pilli into one of Queensland's most improved sprinters.

The seven-year-old has been with four trainers during his career but has blossomed since joining Pollock's stables early this season, winning all three starts.

"He's a very sound horse and his head's in the right place," Pollock said.

"At home he's got a paddock that he relaxes in all day and he loves that.

"He's a very happy horse and when they're like that they perform well."

Pollock admitted he was concerned when Delago Pilli was awkwardly placed on the home turn.

"He was back last and I wasn't sure if Geoff took the right option but that's how he races and luckily he was able to get out and finish hard," he said.