Every trainer remembers their first winner.

For Liam Ruddy, that milestone arrived at Tamworth Racecourse on Saturday 31 January, when Flamboyant Ladproduced a determined performance to give the young trainer his first victory.

The win came in Race 2, the Tamworth Kangaroos AFC Class 1 Handicap over 1000 metres, with apprentice jockey Tilly McCarroll in the saddle.

For any trainer starting out, the first winner represents far more than a result on the form guide. It reflects years of learning, preparation, and belief in building a stable from the ground up.

Jumping from barrier two, Flamboyant Lad carried 60kg on a Good 3 surface and was ridden positively by McCarroll throughout the 1000-metre sprint.

The four-year-old gelding responded strongly when asked for an effort, finishing off his race to defeat Maxandus by 0.6 lengths, with Meddlesome a further margin away in third.

Flamboyant Lad, a chestnut gelding by Yes Yes Yes out of Ra Ra Epic, is a horse that has continued to develop with racing and experience.

Owned by a group including Ruddy himself alongside several supporters of the stable, the gelding provided a special result for the connections who have backed the young trainer’s journey.

Training a first winner is a defining moment in any trainer’s career.

For Liam, the victory represents the start of what he hopes will be a long and successful journey in racing. It also provides confidence that the systems, preparation, and approach he is building within his stable are beginning to produce results.

With the first winner now on the board, the focus for Liam Ruddy and his team is firmly on the future.

The stable continues to grow, with a number of young horses progressing through their early preparations and exciting opportunities emerging for those looking to become involved in racehorse ownership.

For owners who enjoy being part of the journey from the beginning, now is an exciting time to join the stable as it continues to build momentum.

Enquiries from prospective owners are always welcome.