The breeding barn is calling for Searchin’ Roc’s, with the tough and consistent mare set to bow out in Saturday’s Group 3 Hyperion Stakes (1600m) at Pinjarra.
Trainer Sharon Taylor confirmed that the six-year-old’s racing career will come to an end after this start, bringing the curtain down on a memorable journey that began in 2021.
Searchin’ Roc’s has amassed nine wins across 33 starts, including two Group 3 victories and four Listed wins, collecting $1.2 million in prizemoney and becoming a favourite with fans for her heart and grit.
“It’s definitely not a decision we have made lightly,” Taylor said to Racing WA.
“Lots of tears have been shed.
“She’s come back into season a couple of times and it’s better for her.
“She’s really showing she hasn’t got her mind on the job.
“In saying that, her work has been just top notch.
“I had a chat to mum and dad and said I think it’s fairer for her.
“We were sort of looking at the Railway if she raced well again.
“Even though she’s been racing well, I don’t think she’s at that level to win one now.
“It will be great if she could go out a winner on Saturday.
“After that we will look at selling her as a broodmare.
“We’ve had an amazing ride with our girl, and she’s exceeded all our expectations.”
Searchin’ Roc’s began her career under David Harrison, scoring feature wins in the G3 Champion Fillies Stakes (1600m), Listed Belgravia Stakes (1200m), and Listed Belmont Oaks (2000m).
She later moved to Jim Taylor’s Bullsbrook stables, adding further black-type victories in the Group 3 Peters (1500m), Listed Farnley Stakes (1400m), and Listed Idyllic Prince Stakes (1300m).
“I think there was probably a couple that she was unlucky with as well,” Taylor said.
“She would have won more, but that’s just how it goes.
“She’s definitely one of the toughest and most genuine horses, for sure.”
Drawn in barrier 14 for her swansong in the Hyperion Stakes, Searchin’ Roc’s will again be ridden by Jessica Valas, who partnered her to ninth in the Belmont Sprint.
“Some of her best runs have been from the outside as well,” Taylor said.
“She’s shown before that she can do it.
“She’ll be out of trouble and will have clear running.”
Searchin’ Roc’s is considered an outsider in Hyperion Stakes betting, currently rated a $61 chance on online betting sites. Meanwhile, Magnificent Andy and Western Empire head the market at $2.90 and $3 respectively.
To explore odds on the Hyperion Stakes or back sentimental favourites like Searchin’ Roc’s in her farewell race, browse the best Australian betting sites for top racing promotions and expert insights.