Winless in 26 starts since capturing the WATC Derby in April 2014, the Fred Kersley-trained Respondent turned back the clock in Saturday's $100,000 Listed Tabtouch - Tattersall's Cup (2100m) at Ascot.
Ridden by Chris Parnham, the 6yo gelded son of Haradasun nosed out the favourite Dark Alert (Testa Rossa) with Kia Ora Koutou (Blackfriars) a length back in third.
Reported as sold for $57,500 when topping the 2016 Magic Millions Perth Winter Yearling and Thoroughbred Sales back in June, Respondent still races for his breeder's Bob and Sandra Peters who also own runner-up Dark Alert.
Despite his lengthy absence from the winners circle, Respondent has placed seven times in stakes races since his derby triumph.
His overall record stands at 5 wins, 5 seconds and 9 thirds from 38 starts with earnings of $744,490.
Respondent is the fourth foal of the tough-as-teak Metal Storm mare Avenida Madero who won 13 and placed in 10 of her 40 starts.
Highlighting her four stakes wins was the 200e Group II Le Steere Stakes.
Also the dam of Winterbottom Stakes aspirant State Solicitor, Avenida Madero has a 2yo gelded brother to Respondent named State Attorney, a yearling colt by Denman and an I Am Invincible colt foal born on October 30.
