Just like his tablemate Prince Ruban, Patriotic King was unfazed by a tardy start in the Book Your Christmas Party at DTC Handicap (1200m) at Fannie Bay.

After missing the jump, Jarrod Todd uorged Patriotic King forward and the speedster was in control as the field swung off the back straight.

Todd gave the Gary Clarke – trained galloper a little breather from there to the home turn and then let him loose.

Patriotic King soon put four lengths on his rivals.

Although tiring, the seven-year-old son of Starspangledbanner held out Merchant Delight by 3 quarters of a length with Signor Bill a fast finishing third, a short neck back.

Patriotic King, raced by a group of owners headed by Wylie Dalziel/Roy Higgens racing, has now won eight of 38 starts with 12 placings and stakes of almost $158,000.

Snappy Sweetheart, as expected, scored a hard-fought win in the ROANT Special Conditions Plate (1100m) and, in the process, landed a $5,000 Sportsbet Newcomers Bonus for winning three races in the NT this calendar year.

Trained by Phil Cole and with Deborah Barton in the saddle, Snappy Sweetheart began well and held the lead on the fence with Patyep on her outer. The latter was visibly under pressure approaching the Silks Corner, while Snappy Sweetheart had plenty in reserve.

Barton asked her mount to find extra early in the home straight and, even though Red Extreme came from the tail to challenge, the three-year-old daughter of Zousain held her rival to score by three-quarters of a length. Newcomer TEE Galleria ran well for third.

Snappy Sweetheart has now won three races from six starts.

Story Courtesy Andrew O’Toole