Banker’s Boss not only passed his very first test over the mile, he also defied topweight to lead all the way in the RM200,000 3YO Mile Championship (1600m) at Sungai Besi today.

Primarily a sprinter with a win (over 1000m) and three placings in six starts in Western Australian, the Hellbent galloper also raced over 1100m and 1200m in his first four outings in the country, winning twice and was placed in the other two.

Banker’s Boss had first attempt over 1400m in a Class 2 handicap two weeks ago and finished eighth to Eruption.

But trainer Johnny Lim’s was not disappointed and continued to believe that his charge will run out a good mile.

His faith in Banker’s Boss was proven right when the Australian gelding made all the running in the set-weight event.

Drawn on the inside No 1 barrier, apprentice Farhan Ghazali quickly sent Banker’s Boss to the front but kept a nice hold of the gelding until the straight.

Farhan then let Banker’s Boss go and the pair quickly opened up a big lead.

Second favourite Mega Skye made a bold big in the final 100m but Banker’s Boss was always going well, winning by 1-3/4 lengths. The favourite Mega First also put in good work towards the finish to take third placing.

“He (Banker’s Boss) is the best of my four runners but there was a little question mark over the distance as he had not raced over the trip,” said Lim.

“And he was carrying topweight (59kg).

“With the inside draw, I told Farhan to go the front and he did a superb job.”

“Although he is setting the pace with topweight, he felt comfortable under me all the way,” said Farhan who enjoyed his biggest win to date.

“Coming to the straight, he still had plenty in the tank so I knew I was going to win.

“I was also confident about this horse.”

Farhan has now ridden Banker’s Boss four times for three wins and a second.