Search

show me:

Searchin’ Roc’s passes test

3 minute read

Jim Taylor breathed a sigh of relief after his talented mare Searchin’ Roc’s passed a big test at Belmont trials on Monday with flying colours.

The noted barrier rogue loaded into the barriers without a problem and gave Taylor renewed optimism after she powered to a strong 1000m heat win under jockey, Kyra Yuill.

The daughter of Awesome Rock has her Pinnacles campaign back on track with Taylor set to roll her out for her much anticipated stable debut at Ascot in three weeks.

Searchin' Roc's taking on the Pinnacles is a major confidence boost for Taylor after her racing career looked in serious jeopardy at Belmont trials a fortnight ago.

The four-year-old was at her obstinate best when she refused to load and conform in the barrier stalls, missing a key hit out with her imperfect manners.

But Taylor has been relentless in putting plenty of work into improving Searchin' Roc's barrier manners and it seems it's starting to reap dividends.

"Last time when she didn't load at trials we didn't try the blindfold, but this time we did and she was good," Taylor told The Races WA.

"We tried the first time without the blindfold and then we obviously had to put them back on today (Monday).

"By all reports she was good and speaking to the starter and a couple of the barrier attendants they said she was beautiful.

"She'll go the Asian Beau Stakes (1400m) first up, we'll try and get her to the Railway, but we'll just wait and see,

"She trialled really good and I think she is going really well.

"She hit the front by a couple of lengths and then just waited for them.

"Kyra said she was happy with how she felt as well."

Searchin' Roc's came to Taylor's Bullsbrook stable from David Harrison.

Her six wins from 12 outings include the Group 3 Champion Fillies Stakes (1600m) and Listed success in the Belgravia Stakes (1200m) and Belmont Oaks (2000m).

The Group 3 Asian Beau Stakes is staged over 1400m on October 29.

Meanwhile Taylor enjoyed watching the efforts of stable mate, Military Power, in heat seven.

The Defcon three-year-old displayed plenty of dash to lead and win over 1000m.

A patient build up after five trials since January, Military Power, is set to launch his debut in upcoming weeks.

"We like him and he trialled good," Taylor said.

"He'll have another trial before going to the races.

"He should be pretty hard to beat first up, I think."


Racing and Sports

What’s gambling really costing you?

For free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit www.gamblinghelponline.org.au