The Jason Fino-trained and driven five year-old finally broke through for victory in the Fosters Mensland Pace at Laidlaw Park on Monday last week, capping off a strong run of recent form.

The son of Armbro Operative showed gate speed to sit outside the leader for almost the entire trip, before going home best to win a thrilling finish ahead of Peter Manning-trained Jilliby Pete and Freeway Jet.

Leon Phelps' victory comes after eight career second placings.

``He has been going good but just getting no luck,'' Jason Fino said, moments after the race.

``I was confident, but not so much with the track. He hits his knee and I thought he wouldn't handle the track.''

Fino said Leon Phelps was a half brother to 2002 The Graduate winner Blue Star Rising.