Gold Front Thoroughbreds stallion Awesome Rock unearthed his latest black-type prospect when Rock Fest was a dominant five-length debut winner for Pearce Racing at Belmont on Wednesday.
Rock Fest had won a Lark Hill barrier trial on August 11 and went out a $2.35 favourite in the Morley Growers Market Hcp (1200m) which was reduced to seven starters after heavy showers had been forecast for the midweek meeting. Co-trainer Ben Pearce predicted a bright future the promising 3yo after he received a nice cart into the race before spacing minor placegetters I’m Genevieve (Contributer) and Jimmy Angel (Harry Angel) in the straight.
“We think he will develop into a top-quality stayer,” Pearce said. “We expected him to win today but to see it work out like that is another thing altogether. He continues to improve at home and we will keep him in work this prep. That’s been the plan all the way along.”
Winning jockey Clint Johnston-Porter is looking forward to a successful partnership with Rock Fest. “He’s exciting and gave me an awesome feel. Ben told me this horse is going to be their number one and, after that win, I reckon he’s not far off there.”
Gold Front owners Alan and Sue Olive bred him using their Group 1 winning resident Awesome Rock (Fastnet Rock) who sired classic winners Searchin’ Roc’s (G3 WA Champion Fillies), Awesome John (G2 WATC Derby) and Own The Queen (G3 WATC Oaks) in his first three crops. He was sold to Pearce Racing for $55,000 at the 2024 Perth Magic Millions.
Rock Fest is bred to get over ground being a younger full-brother to Red Sun Sensation (G3 SAJC Chairman’s Stakes) and half-brother to Gingerbread Man filly Chili Is Hot (LR Belmont Oaks). The latest foal from their NZ-bred dam Society Gal (Faltaat) is a new-season 2yo colt by Awesome Rock.
Last week, Gold Front reported this season’s foal crop is into double figures with another 30 due in the spring. One of the first to arrive was an Awesome Rock colt from Playing God mare Devil Girl. Awesome Rock stands for a service fee of $7,975 (inc GST) at Gold Front. For bookings or further details, call Sue Olive (0417 937 606) or Naomi Montuolo (0400 738 964).
