Rod Millman is no stranger to big-race success at York and was back in the spotlight once more after Master Carpenter came good in the 56th John Smith's Cup on a day jockey Phillip Makin will not forget in a hurry.
It is 10 years since the magnificent Sergeant Cecil strode up the Knavesmire to win the Ebor during a fabulous campaign in which he also claimed the Northumberland Plate and the Cesarewitch.
The popular stayer returned to the track to win the Lonsdale Cup, the Yorkshire Cup and the rearranged Doncaster Cup before the end of his career and while Master Carpenter has some way to go to reach those heights, he provided his trainer with a welcome Saturday success after a lean campaign so far.
The chestnut four-year-old brought plenty of class to the party having won a French Group Three last year and while he has largely struggled since, he has kept good company.
There have been definite signs of a revival since having his sights lowered, with his close-up third in a similarly competitive handicap at Sandown just a week ago suggesting his turn was near, and he displayed tenacity to go with his talent in front of the packed grandstands.
Always well positioned, Master Carpenter was strongly pressed in the final throws of the extended 10-furlong feature and stuck to his guns to his guns to see off long-time leader Kelinni by a neck, having led two out.
Millman was represented by his son and assistant, James.
The former jockey, who is now studying law at Leeds University, said: "This is a great result, we're having a quiet season. We've only had four winners and we'd normally be well into double figures by now.
"Phil gave him a great ride, he kicked and just had enough left to hold on.
"This is our star horse. He won a Group Three for us in France last year, which was a great result at the time, but because of that he's obviously been very high in the handicap and it's been tough for him.
"On quick ground like this, stepping up to a mile and a quarter has helped him and he's a classy horse.
"This obviously brings back memories of Sergeant Cecil and to win a big Saturday race like this is great for everyone in the yard.
"The Cambridgeshire might be a possibility for him, but we'll have to see what the handicapper does."
The victory was the highlight of four winners on the afternoon for Makin, who said: "It's great, you need these days to keep your name there and in the picture. It's great that it's all worked out."
As well as riding a double for David O'Meara earlier on the card, the irrepressible Makin brought up his four-timer when driving Dark Defender (7-1) to victory for trainer Keith Dalgleish in the concluding John Smith's Stakes.
