It was the fifth start of Phoenix Reach's career

Martin Dwyer urged the three-year-old on in the closing stages and held off Macaw by three-quarters of a length.

Favourite Brian Boru had to settle for third spot at Woodbine, Toronto.

"I've been very lucky," said Balding.

"The horse has got a lot of speed, a good turn of foot - I'm thrilled."

Balding took over the trainer's reins from his father Ian in January this year and has had a fruitful season, picking up his first Group One win with Casual Look in the Vodafone Oaks at Epsom.

"I've taken over a yard full of talented horses and good staff," added Balding, after his Canadian win.

"We dropped him (Phoenix Reach) back from a mile and six in the St Leger to a mile and a half, which is his trip, really.

"It wouldn't surprise me if he went a good race over 10 furlongs one day."

Dwyer also rounded off a memorable weekend in Toronto after guiding veteran Persian Punch to victory in the Jockey Club Cup at Newmarket on Saturday.

The jockey kept Phoenix Reach bunched up amid the pack as they rounded into the long home straight.

Jamie Spencer pushed on Brian Boru to make his challenge from last position but Phoenix Reach accelerated through the field to claim first spot.

The colt's triumph was only his fifth race - he has only been lightly raced after suffering from a leg injury last season.

Frankie Dettori had to settle for third place in the E P Taylor Stakes in Toronto as his filly Hi Dubai was pegged back in the closing stages.