Cranbourne-based trainer Michael Trotter received a call from jockey Craig Williams while he was travelling abroad.
The conversation took place shortly after Trotter’s three-year-old colt, Russian Rock, had participated in the Stutt Stakes (1600m) at Caulfield on September 27.
Following Adam McCabe’s suspension for causing interference in that race, Williams proactively put himself forward as a potential jockey for the colt’s subsequent start.
That next race is scheduled for Saturday, where Russian Rock will compete in the Group 3 Sportsbet Classic (2000m).
“He rang me Sunday night after the races. He was all over it,” Trotter remarked about Williams.
“We’ve had quite a bit of luck over the journey and it’s always good when he’s ringing me.
“I was actually overseas having a break when he rang and then I was home less than 24 hours when he rang again to confirm it.”
Williams and Trotter boast a strong record when partnering.
Collectively, they have secured four wins at a strike-rate of nearly 27%, with a place strike-rate of 33%.
Russian Rock has only raced on three occasions.
He finished third at Sandown on debut in March, priced at $71, and then made his return with a maiden victory over 1450m at Kilmore on September 13, two weeks prior to his fifth-place finish in the Stutt Stakes.
“He’s certainly improved since that last run,” Trotter stated.
“He’s still learning what it’s all about. He’s only three runs into his racing career and he’s showing that he’s already looking for the 2000 metres.”
With the Victoria Derby (2500m) at Flemington on October 31 in mind, Trotter indicated that this is the direction he aims to take.
“That’s probably the ultimate goal at the end of the day, but we’ll see how it pans out,” Trotter said.
“If he runs well on Saturday, we’ll keep pushing forward.
“Craig has already plotted the path, it’s just whether the horse can get the job done.”
The Victoria Derby is a prestigious race, and racing betting markets are already buzzing about the contenders.