Trainer Neil Godbolt will have his fingers crossed when Rock ‘N’ Rich goes into the barriers at Taree tomorrow in the XXXX Gold Benchmark 55 Hcp (1000m).
The four-year-old has a bad habit of jumping in the air when the stalls are released which has proved costly to him in the past.
“He can be a bit iffy in the barriers. That’s his drawback,” Port Macquarie-based Godbolt said. “He gets his head in the air.
“A couple of times when we thought he could win he’s blown the start.
“I just hope he comes out on terms with them. If he does he a good chance.”
Rock ‘N’ Rich is raced by Tuncurry-Forster Jockey Club president Garry McQuillan , his wife and Mrs R Phegan.
The Rock Of Gibraltar four-year-old is out of the well performed mare Rich Megadale, a four-time winner of 15 starts who lists dual Listed wins to her credit and several Group placing’s.
Rock ‘N’ Rich began his career with Stuart Phegan before being transferred to Godbolt last year.
Rock ‘N’ Rich has won four from 17 starts including a last start 3.5 length success in a 811m Class 3 handicap at Coffs Harbour on a heavy track on April 19.
The gelding led that day and Godbolt said that is his preferred racing pattern.
“If he gets to the front on his own that’s his best chance,” Godbolt added. “He won quiet well at Coffs.
There wasn’t a lot of depth in the race but he did everything right.
“That’s the key to him – doing everything right.
“He’s done well since Coffs Harbour, worked well and he’s a nice horse to have around the stable.
“He’s done everything right at home.“He’s quiet and a good doer, it’s just his habit of jumping in the air which can be a problem.”
Adam Nicholls has the mount.
