Fast ‘n’ Rocking may well have carried the unwanted “best maiden” tag but Hall of Fame trainer David Hayes was never worried.
Having shaken the tag last time round Fast ‘n’ Rocking is a major contender in Saturday’s $1m Golden Rose Stakes at Rosehill.
“From a punter’s point of view the horse finally won but from the horse’s point of view he knows how to win,” Hayes said on Friday.
Hayes had just reported the three-year-old had arrived safely at his satellite stable at Randwick having made the overnight trip from the family’s magnificent training property at Euroa.
“It is good he has won that race but actually he had win a trial in Sydney before he went back to Melbourne,” Hayes said.
“First-up they thought he had won, last time out in the McNeil he trotted up, won easily, and he has gone right on with it at home.”
Hong Kong based Aussie Brett Prebble returns to continue the association on Fast ‘n’ Rocking which is on the second line of betting in the 18 horse Golden Rose.
“He got into Sydney this morning and travelled really good,” Hayes said.
“I’m really happy with him, I think he has had the perfect preparation.
“It is a group 1, a typically hard race and you’ve got the Melbourne form through my bloke and the favourite Prince Harada lining up against the locals.
“Definitely a very interesting race but I’m looking forward to it.”
Hayes has six runners in action at Moonee Valley on Saturday including the Victoria Derby bound Honey’s Steel Gold.
“He might find it a bit short and the 60kg makes it a difficult assignment but he does have the ability,” Hayes said.
“The one to keep a watch on tomorrow is the import Motivado. He has had the four runs in Australia and wasn’t suited over the distance first-up last time round but it is a bit different tomorrow.
“The 2500m is what he is looking for and punters are advised not to let him under their guard.”
In the Dato Tan Chin Nam Stakes at Moonee Valley Hayes will start Spacecraft and another import Bass Strait.
“Spacecraft puts himself there on the pace and always gives his best while Bass Straight is running out of his class and I’m hoping he runs well to get his points, rating, up as we head into the spring.
“He is another horse I’m looking forward to watching progress as the big races come round.”
By Craig Young
