There was a kiss to the sky and a smile that refused to fade. Nick Tomlinson, the 31-year-old Toronto native who spent a decade working under Hall of Famer Mark Casse, finally sent out his first winner as a trainer when Insolenta delivered a runaway 10¼-length victory at Gulfstream Park on Friday afternoon. The chestnut filly’s commanding triumph marked not only a professional milestone but also a deeply personal moment for Tomlinson, who watched the finish with quiet disbelief before being mobbed by well-wishers in the winner’s circle. “It’s a little bittersweet,” he admitted. “She got claimed — you never want to lose them — but I’m glad to get the win.”
The 4-year-old daughter of More Than Ready had finished second in her debut for Tomlinson but left no doubt this time, powering away in Race 4, a $12,500 maiden claimer, to give her trainer his maiden victory. Tomlinson, who began his career on the Woodbine backside at just 13, reflected on the winding journey that led to this day. “I used to help out Peter Berringer on weekends and summers,” he said with a grin. “Sometimes I’d skip school — but my dad doesn’t know that.” His years with respected horsemen Malcolm and Sally Pierce set the stage for his long stint with Casse, where he honed his craft and learned the nuances of preparing horses for top-level competition. “It’s been a great ride,” Tomlinson said warmly.
Though Insolenta was claimed out of the race, Tomlinson remains optimistic about the road ahead. “I’m down to one horse now,” he said, “but we’re looking to get active during the Championship Meet. Some owners have already reached out with interest for the winter.” Based at Palm Meadows, Gulfstream’s satellite training facility in Palm Beach County, Tomlinson now looks to build his stable step by step — with the confidence that his first win has brought. “It might be a little slow at first,” he said, “but we’re ready to grow.” For Tomlinson, Friday’s victory was not just a professional breakthrough — it was a statement of belonging.
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