Michael Trotter, a trainer based in Cranbourne, was on holiday when he received a call from the renowned jockey Craig Williams.
The call came not long after Trotter’s three-year-old colt, Russian Rock, had competed in the Stutt Stakes (1600m) held at Caulfield on September 27.
Following Adam McCabe receiving a suspension for interference during that race, Williams proactively put his name forward as a potential rider for the colt’s next start.
That race is scheduled for Saturday, where Russian Rock will be entered into the Group 3 Sportsbet Classic (2000m).
“He rang me Sunday night after the races. He was all over it,” Trotter said, referring to 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 have a history of success when they partner up.
The duo has recorded four wins, with a strike-rate of almost 27%, and a placing strike-rate of 33%.
Russian Rock has only raced on three occasions.
He managed a placing at Sandown on debut in March, starting as a $71 outsider, and then made his return with a maiden win 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 on the radar, Trotter indicated this is the ultimate aim.
“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 Sportsbet Classic is a key race on the card, and betting markets for the race are expected to be competitive.