High hopes for Nathan

GOLD Coast’s new apprentice jockey Nathan Fazackerley has secured his first win at his new track for trainer Mel Eggleston.

The 21-year-old won the Colts, Geldings and Entires Maiden Handicap (1100m) on Saturday at the Gold Coast Turf Club with the Egglestontrained Miracle Worker.

Fazackerley, who claimed 3kg with Miracle Worker, arrived on the Coast nearly two months ago, shifting south for a trial as he searches for more opportunity at provincial level.

“He rides quite well and rode the horse well on Saturday for me,” Eggleston said.

“He led, controlled the speed and controlled the race. He kept him balanced and then got into him at the right time.”

Eggleston said he believed Fazackerley had the ability to make the move to metropolitan racing if he continued to improve.

“He will graduate to the metropolitan racing and that’s the plan,” Eggleston said.

“I want to see him at full steam here (at the Gold Coast) first so he has a little bit to go.

“I’m tipping within the next 12 months we could get him there. He is on loan at the moment but I think he will stay here permanently. He has been mainly riding out in country areas and is starting to get going. He is a good listener and a great kid. I think he will make the grade.”