FORMER South African breeder Lionel Cohen capped his first year as a trainer with a first city win, by Aeronautical at Randwick yesterday.

Cohen has enjoyed top-level success with Sun Classique, which won the 2008 Sheema Classic on World Cup night in Dubai, before he sold her to Patinack Farm for $2 million.

Aeronautical might not take him to those heights but gave Cohen nearly as big a thrill. The son of Encosta De Lago looked a smart type as he beat Appearance and Imperial Grand, coming from last.

''It has been a long time since I rode a horse that went that quick when I asked him to go,'' Aeronautical's jockey Nathan Berry said.

Cohen admitted he had always dreamed of training and after selling his breeding operation, Odessa Stud, he came to Australia looking for the opportunity.

The third-generation breeder had tried to get his trainer's licence in his home-land, only to be knocked back.

''I have always liked Australian racing and training is something I always wanted to give a try,'' Cohen said. ''I applied for a licence in South Africa and the licensing department told me I would have to do a five-year apprenticeship before I got one. I didn't have that much time, so that's why I came here. The racing industry over here had always impressed and excited me.''

He spent time with trainer David Payne before taking out his licence at the beginning of this season.

Cohen wants to build up his stable to a dozen members and hopes Aeronautical's success will encourage clients other than himself. ''I own every horse in the stable, but I would like to eventually train for someone else,'' he said.

Well-fancied runners Matignon, Pillory and Ingham Magic never got into the race.