Rockfast Works Well

David writes:

This morning at 5.30am Jason Bridgman and Jamie Richards saddled up Rockfast - Te Akau's Group 2 Avondale Guineas and Group 1 NZ Derby aspirant - then Jamie gave him a really good walk.

Just on daybreak, Danielle Johnson arrived at the Matamata track and took Rockfast (or as we call him Monza) out onto the trotting track to warm up before he had his last serious hit out for the Avondale Guineas tomorrow week.  This was on the course proper which was in perfect condition, rated a 4.

Danielle sent me a text as soon as she dismounted from Monza and said "top work, gave him a click up at the 100 and he came up underneath me beautifully. Really looking forward to riding him, he will be a great chance next weekend at Ellerslie".

Danielle is a left-hand whip rider who really seems to get on well with Monza.  Safely through the Guineas, he will tackle the Group 1 $750,000 New Zealand Derby on 28 February at Ellerslie.

James McDonald who rode Rockfast at his previous two starts told me he thinks the horse will be a terrific chance in the Derby.  So good luck to the owners of this exciting colt and to Jason Bridgman who has done such a great job training him - and to the whole team!