The phrase “If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again” has proven to be the case for Pacific Vampire.

Ever since the Impending five-year-old began racing in Malaysia after the closure of racing in Singapore, Pacific Vampire has shown his customary speed to lead in his races. But in four previous outings, he failed to hold on to his advantage and faded towards the end.

The Australian gelding weakened in the run home to finish down the field in his debut but improved to hold on for third to Noah Khan in a Supreme A race over 1200m the next start.

In the Group 1 Tunku Gold Cup, Pacific Vampire again led his rivals on a merry chase but the early effort tooks it toll, and he lost steam in the home stretch to finish 11th to Noah Khan.

Two weeks ago, Pacific Vampire was sent over 1020m on the No. 2 track and many thought the course and distance would suit him to a “t”. He was installed favourite but he failed to run on after setting the pace to end up sixth to Bransom.

 All eyes were on Noah Khan in the Supreme A 1200m sprint at Sungai Besi today in his first run since the Tunku Gold Cup, with punters installing him the odds-on favourite to complete a hattrick.

But there was no catching Pacific Vampire, ridden for the first time by Carlos Henrique, on this occasion.

Pacific Vampire was among a pack of four horses vying for the early lead but he eventually broke away to lead from Mr Black Back who was making his second appearance in the country and backed as the second favourite. Noah Khan settled in a handy fourth position early.

Pacific Vampire led into the straight with Mr Black Back right on his heels. Noah Khan by now had moved up to third, seemingly waiting to pounce.

Jockey Carlos Henrique with Jason Ong, trainer of Pacific Vampire

But shortly after entering the straight, Pacific Vampire began to pull clear of Mr Black Back and streak to a four-length lead at the 200m with Noah Khan and Mr Black Back doing the chasing.

Pacific Vampire, however, kept up a relentless gallop, coasting home by 2-1/4 lengths ahead of Noah Khan. Mr Black Back held on for third.

“Pacific Vampire proved today he can come back and return to good form,” said Henrique.

“I was very confident today. I galloped him every day. He felt good and he did an amazing job today.”

It was Henrique’s second winner of the afternoon, having piloted Campionessa to win the Restricted Maiden race over 1200m earlier.

The Brazilian has been riding in superb form since returning the country for a 12-month stay early last month. He has now chalked up 10 wins in seven meetings, placing him eighth in the premiership table.