That seems to be the word permeating the rising career of Scone gelding Big Ben The Clock and it was in cheerful abundance on Monday after the Rod Northam-trained gelding won the Artie Schiller Benchmark 60 Handicap (1100m) at Scone.

The three-year-old son of Benfica outstayed his rivals to win by three quarters of a length from Armidale gelding Whakatane with the Les Tilley-prepared Suggestapartner a half length away third. 

Big Ben The Clock was having his 11th race start and snared his third win when he stepped up in class in promising fashion.

“He’s a tough big bugger,” Northam said.

“Peter Graham (who won on him at Dubbo) reckons he’s the toughest horse he’s ridden. He just keeps giving. And I think he’ll get better next prep too when he matures and fills out a bit more.”

Greg Ryan had his first ride on the gelding and he too was impressed by the staying ability of the Scone gelding.

“He’s tough, just keeps digging and toughs it out,” Ryan said.

Named after legendary trainer Bill “Bot” Thompson, Invincible Bot could meanwhile be headed for similar heights after the three-year-old gelding boxed on bravely to win the Cressfield Maiden Handicap (1300m).

The Scott Thompson-trained son of I am Invincible was a sitting duck in the straight but refused to yield and was actually forging clear on the post to beat Win The Lottery and Artella.

He was also Rachael Murray’s 118th win in a magical season for the Scone-based jockey.

She is sure he will go on and win some better races. 

“He’s very raw, very impressive. I think he’s got a lovely future,” she said.

Thompson agrees.

“I think he will be even better next time in,” he said.

“He’s still not right in the coat. I think he’ll come back a better horse once he has a break. And a bit further won’t hurt either.”