Trainer Michael Trotter of Cranbourne was overseas when he received an important phone call from champion jockey Craig Williams.
The call came shortly after Trotter’s promising three-year-old colt, Russian Rock, had competed in the Stutt Stakes (1600m) at Caulfield on September 27.
Due to Adam McCabe’s suspension for interference in that race, Williams seized the opportunity to put himself forward as a potential rider for the colt’s next outing.
That next race is scheduled for Saturday, when Russian Rock will participate in the Group 3 Sportsbet Classic (2000m).
“He rang me Sunday night after the races. He was all over it,” Trotter mentioned regarding Williams’ proactive approach.
“We’ve had quite a bit of luck over the journey and it’s always good when he’s ringing me.
“I was actually overseas having a break when he rang and then I was home less than 24 hours when he rang again to confirm it.”
Williams and Trotter have a proven track record of success when they team up.
Their partnership has resulted in four wins, boasting a strike-rate of nearly 27%, and a placing strike-rate of 33%.
Russian Rock has only had three starts in his career.
He finished third at Sandown on his debut in March, starting at $71, and then returned to win a 1450m maiden at Kilmore on September 13, two weeks before his fifth-place finish in the Stutt Stakes.
“He’s certainly improved since that last run,” Trotter stated.
“He’s still learning what it’s all about. He’s only three runs into his racing career and he’s showing that he’s already looking for the 2000 metres.”
With the Victoria Derby (2500m) at Flemington on October 31 in mind, Trotter confirmed this is the preferred target.
“That’s probably the ultimate goal at the end of the day, but we’ll see how it pans out,” Trotter said.
“If he runs well on Saturday, we’ll keep pushing forward.
“Craig has already plotted the path, it’s just whether the horse can get the job done.”
The upcoming Sportsbet Classic is drawing attention, and racing odds are being closely watched by those interested in online bookmakers.