Racing: Lane scores at Flemington

Talented Bunbury apprentice Damian Lane has wasted little time in making an impact on Melbourne racing circles after landing his second win in the space of a week at Kyneton last Tuesday.

Lane was at his sublime best when he stylishly lifted the Mathew Ellerton-Simon Zahra-trained Pixie to an impressive victory in the Optus Business Rising Stars Handicap (1125m).

It was a cool, composed and calculated ride from Lane that has become the hallmark of his early career.

He settled a distant last with the Lonhro mare who was giving her rivals a big start on straightening but sprouted wings down the outside of the track before grabbing victory with a desperate lunge on the line.

It mirrored a similar ride on Annlea at Flemington last Saturday which delivered the 17-year-old his maiden Melbourne win.

‘‘He has a very mature head on his shoulders,’’ Ellerton said.

‘‘He has good poise, does not panic and is an excellent horseman.’’

Lane was delighted by the win and the realisation of a dream.

‘‘Winning a race at Flemington is something I always wanted to do,’’ he said.

‘‘It also gets the monkey off my back early and relieves a bit of pressure.’’

It has been the ideal start for Lane but one that has not surprised his supporters back home including his father Michael.

‘‘I always knew he would make a success of it because he is such a hard worker with a level head on his shoulders,’’ Michael said.

‘‘I know they are wrapt with him and the way he has settled in very well.’’

Lane will attempt to make it a trifecta of wins when he takes the mount on Indian Curry in the Eastcoast Mitre 10 Mighty Shed Handicap (1100m) at Sale this afternoon.

It is his only ride on the program but he is determined to make the most of every opportunity.

‘‘Riding against the best jockeys in the country is really exciting,’’ Damian said.

‘‘It is the best way to learn.’’