Thunder Comes Rolling In
Leicester is one of those tracks that always seems to produce a good maiden, that will see plenty of useful sorts come out of a race. With its central proximity to both the north and south, there are plenty of options for 2yo’s to take each other on, usually throwing up plenty of winners and nice horses. Rock on Thunder certainly ticked the box of a potentially smart 2yo when taking the 6f Orin Swift EBF Maiden Stakes on debut.
The son of Night Of Thunder, was a Tattersalls Book 1 purchase. That sale offers some of the very best yearlings, mixing top class pedigrees with fine physicals. Rock On Thunder was exactly that and from day one, his work seemed to be right up there too. Although he was always forward in his work, it was clear that he should be starting his racing career over 6f.
Jim Crowley was booked for the ride and the pair would line up against 12 rivals. An unusually hot spring has seen the ground being endlessly quick, but recent rain had softened the going up a touch. Jumping well from stall 13, Rock On Thunder was professional and into stride fairly well. He got into a nice rhythm and moved up to press the leaders through the first furlong.
With no experience in the field, all the runners were in the same boat as they raced through the first half. The field bunched up towards the near side as they raced in a group. By halfway the race began increase in tempo and this saw one or two of the juveniles, get a little unbalanced. Rock On Thunder travelled sweetly down the near side, as Jim allowed him to creep every closer.
Entering the final 2f, the ground rises up and Rock On Thunder got there traveling best of all. As Jim began to wind his mount up the from few began to stretch away from the rest of the field. There was a quartet who moved clear passing the 1f marker and all still held a chance of taking their maiden win. Changing his legs, Rock On Thunder quickens up best of all down the near side. He edged to the lead with 100 yards to run and really began to hit top gear. Utilising his stride, the colt began to assert and ate into the ground, finding more every stride he went. With an educational ride, Rock On Thunder galloped out to a 1 1/4 length win on debut.
It was a lovely debut from Rock On Thunder who showed a professional attitude, travelled smoothly and then went about his business when asked. The further they went the stronger he got and won going away which is always a positive thing to see. Obviously he has a stellar pedigree and may well be one for the Royal meeting which is fast approaching. It will be interesting to see him take a step up in grade, and on this evidence is certainly deserves to take his chance. What is for sure is that Rock On Thunder will continue to progress throughout the year.