Chance for Group One redemption

DESPITE being “in a rush” this morning, there was no chance of Jayden Barker passing the reins behind Rockinwithattitude to someone else…and that was only for track work.

Booked to drive in the first event in Maryborough today, Barker arranged his entire schedule around Rockinwithattitude’s preparation according to trainer David Miles.

Forming a strong bond with the two-year-old – including a win in last month’s Tatlow Stake – Barker was adamant only he will jog Rockinwithattitude.

“They are peas in a pod these two,” Miles said. “Jayden organised all his work around her before going to Maryborough today cause he wouldn’t let anyone else jog her.

“He was in the first, which meant he was in a rush, but he made sure no matter what he was the one who worked her.”

Successful in a heat last week, Barker and his ‘bestie’ are engaged in Saturday night’s Breeders’ Crown Final at Tabcorp Park Melton.

Drawn well in barrier two, the pair are searching for Group One redemption after being checked and losing all chance when looking a winning prospect at the top of the home straight in the Redwood Classic on October 30.

“Everything looks good on paper,” Miles said. “But as has been proven so many times, the draw only looks good or bad before the mobile lets them go.

“Her work has been as strong as ever and she’s got a draw to settle in a good position, so now it’s a matter of how it unfolds on the night.”

In other news from the Miles stable, Focus Stride has rejoined the team.

Considered a rising star as a three-year-old with seven wins – including the Group One Bathurst Gold Chalice – and two seconds from nine starts, Focus Stride was all but retired due to injury.

Returning in the care of New South Wales horseman Darren Binskin after a 26-month absence, Focus Stride won four of his first six starts back before mixing his form during his next five outings.

Hopeful the son of Art Major can force his way into the upcoming Inter Dominion, Miles has Focus Stride in Friday night’s Breeders’ Crown Graduate Free-For-All.

“He’s felt terrific since he got here and has been working really well,” Miles said. “Hopefully he can give a good showing barrier two and climb the rankings to make his way into the Inter.”