G1 Target for Fastnet Rock's Packing Rockstar
Ever consistent sprinter Packing Rockstar (6g Fastnet Rock x Anabandana, by Anabaa) displayed all his fighting qualities when he downed a high-quality field of sprinters in the Group III J Swap Sprint (1400m) at Te Rapa in New Zealand on Saturday.
Despite carrying the topweight of 60kgs, the six-year-old son of Fastnet Rock dictated affairs at the head of the field for rider Leith Innes and looked to be full of running turning for home.
Maintaining a strong gallop, the Lauren Brennan-trained galloper refused to yield as he defeated Providenceprovides to register his sixth career victory and second at stakes level after taking out the Group II Japan Trophy (1600m) at Tauranga back in March.
Brennan, who part-owns Packing Rockstar with her husband Mickey under their Monacurragh Lodge banner along with bloodstock agent Garry Carvell, had been quietly confident before the race after the statuesque galloper had finished close-up in second behind Gold Watch at his most recent run.
“That was just so awesome and I’m just so happy about it,” she said.
“He obviously likes that freewheeling out in front as he can’t be interfered with and doesn’t over-race.
“Leith rated him beautifully and they just couldn’t catch him, even with the 60kgs.
“It is a real family affair with this horse with Kate (daughter) helping us at home while Mike drives the truck and helps out as well.
“It’s a good system and we like to ride our own horses so we can get a good feel for them.”
Brennan indicated the next target for her charge would be the Gr.1 Sistema Railway (1200m) at Ellerslie on New Year’s day where he is currently rated a $10 chance by TAB bookmakers behind outstanding mares in Entriviere ($2.50) and Levante ($3.20) and the speedy Babylon Berlin ($8).
Packing Rockstar was bought in Australia at Magic Millions from the Coolmore draft for $260,000 by Hong Kong trainer Ricky Yiu.
Bred by Morning Rise Stud, he is the best of three winners from Group I winner Anabandana and has now won six of his 17 starts and over $252,000 in prizemoney.