It took longer than expected, but Faversham, a 3-year-old full-brother to two-time Horse of the Year California Chrome, beat maidens in his sixth start in Thursday's fifth race.

Ridden for the first time by Tiago Pereira, Faversham ($36.40) stormed clear late to win by 3 1-4 lengths over 3-1 Clyde's Pride. Faversham ran a mile on turf in 1:36.26.

Faversham, a ridgling, was second in his debut in January and later promoted from third to second when a rival caused interference in a maiden race in March. More recently, Faversham struggled, finishing ninth in a maiden race on turf in April and sixth in a maiden race on May 12. 

Faversham raced without blinkers for the first time in three starts on Thursday.

By Lucky Pulpit, Faversham races for Denise and Perry Martin, who co-owned California Chrome. Art Sherman, who trained Chrome, also looks after Faversham.

3. 1-4