A gelding operation has heralded a new beginning for the talented Knoydart whose tag as a non-winner has been shed at Canterbury.

The four-year-old's previous 12 starts had netted two wins and seven frustrating minor placings.

But he showed determination not previously seen at his first start for the season in the TAB Rewards (1250m) when he fought off his Darley stablemate Petrify to win by a half length.

Trainer Peter Snowden said although Knoydart is well-bred being by More Than Ready out of Group One winner Regal Cheer, it wasn't a hard decision to geld him.

"Stallions need to win and win. He wasn't," Snowden said.

"It's frustrating when you know they've got the ability but this bloke was thinking too much.

"He's much more genuine now.

"I gave him two barrier trials and he won his second one after I told Kerrin (McEvoy) to test him.

"I don't usually do that but I wanted to see him do it."

Despite his record, Knoydart was sent out the $2.45 favourite and McEvoy made a positive move early in the race.

Petrify ($5.50) moved up on his outside inside the final 200m but Knoydart had plenty in reserve.

"I took a chance on going forward," McEvoy said.

"He's a quirky bugger and he's better with a sit but he did it well."