After not getting it all his way last start Angel Of Rock should bounce back in a more suitable affair when contesting the Eck’s Electric And Solar Ratings 68 Handicap (1600m) at Stawell.
Photo by Racing and Sports
The Darren Weir-trained gelding following a string of solid efforts couldn’t go on with the job last start when eighth at Bendigo.
Angel Of Rock on straightening may have been caught on the worst part of the track during that outing as he struggled to quicken under a 60kg impost.
The Rock Of Gibraltar gelding today drops in weights and finds himself in a race where a number of the anticipated top contenders have been scratched.
What Angel Of Rock delivered last start was actually only four pounds below his prior two outings each assessed at 75.
Fifth up, the four-year-old should be after the 1600m on offer here and the last time he raced over this distance, Angel Of Rock produced one of his highest rated efforts.
Those who finished ahead of him on that occasion (Rollerball, Heaven’s Riches and Crystalised) have all gone on to bigger and better things and Angel Of Rock should be continuing his way through the grades here.
His consistency is a very favourable characteristic in this affair where a number of key rivals can get near Angel Of Rock’s top figures this campaign, however can’t on a consistent basis.
A prime example is Gold Bridian who won at Donald last start.
The Bill and Symon Wilde-trained mare earlier this campaign put in some shockers and while she rates as a main contender on best form, can only be taken on trust.
Oratorium could be ready to improve third up and would have to after posting a 68 at Echuca when a 4.5 length fourth.
Trabbiano drops back to country company after a midfield effort on resuming at Sandown over 1400m last start however may still need the run.
With an ideal barrier, expect Angel Of Rock to enjoy a cosy run in transit, perhaps midfield one off the fence and hit the front when it matters.
