On Saturday, at Orange’s Towac Park, he witnessed his seven-year-old brown gelding finally win his first race in the Steeline Maiden Plate (1280 metres). 

The gelding first start came all the way back in September, 2013, at Newcastle and has come a long way in the five years since.

“He had a bad accident two years ago. It was no fault of his,” Theobald said.

“It took 12 months for him to recover. He had a 10 millimetre hole in his leg, which blew out to four inches. It nearly cost him his life.

“But he’s got a job for life. He’s a really lovely horse.

“I’m really happy for the horse. He deserved the win and it may be a picnic race but it’s still hard to win.”

Rise Me Up led from start to finish in the five race field and finish 0.89 lengths ahead of second-placed One Eye Watching.  

“They rated it a soft six. There was a bit of rain but he got through it and lead all the way,” he said.

“They took him on a few times but he pulled away.

“It’s his first win. I’m happy but I’m a bit annoyed too because he has to move up a grade now.

“I’ll give him a freshen up and take him to Geurie in February and try and work him towards the $50,000 Dubbo Cup.” 

Theobald’s other horse – Heeby Frenly – finished fourth in the Give Me 5 For Kids Trophy (1300 metres).