PENANG:  Dec 18, 2011

In just his second day on the scene, newly licenced trainer Nor Azman showed that could be a force to be reckoned with by saddling his first winner FABERGE in a Class 4 - 1200m handicap here today.

FABERGE is among a string of horses he has taken over from other trainers, indicating he has a strong support base among the owners.

FABERGE, a Malaysian bred by Magic Of Money out of the Bletchingly mare Daringly, had to fight tooth-and-nail to score by a short head to record her fourth win in 16 starts.

Meanwhile, the intense battle for the trainer's title continued with leading trainer Richard Lines saddling a double with CONFLIENCE (Zentsov Street - Happy And Famous by Danzero) and GOLD STAR WINNER (Elusive Quality - Mihnah by Lahib).

This was in response to Kevin Coetzee having saddled two winners yesterday to close the gap to just two winners. Coetzee, the defending champion, replied later with FLYING SPEED (Elusive City - To The Manor by Grand Lodge). The score is currently 67 to 64 with just two racings day left of the season.