Royal Glance gave young trainer Mitchell Freedman his first city win when she powered home at Sandown on Wednesday.
The four-year-old is one of 13 horses in Freedman's stables but one of the few in racing condition.
"A fair few of them are pre-trainers and a few broken-down horses that are doing rehab programs," Freedman said.
Royal Glance scored a seven-length win on debut at Werribee and made a comfortable transition to city racing in the MiStable Handicap (1300m).
Royal Glance ($5.50) came from just off the speed to beat Deeming by a half length with the favourite Not A Llama ($2.40) two lengths away in third.
Freedman learned his craft with Royal Glance's original trainer Andrew Payne before his last post as a foreman to Melbourne premiership leader Darren Weir.
Freedman, 25, said working Royal Glance on the beach near his Warrnambool stable was the key to her success.
"I thought today was a big enough step for her," Freedman said.
"I have taken my time and not rushed her. She's going to be a horse that gets out over a trip."