Looking to join select group of greats

CLASSY pacer Rock N Roll Doo will aim to join a select group of stars when he returns to Kilmore tomorrow night.

Triumphant in the club’s time-honoured Cup last season, Rock N Roll Doo is attempting to become just the fourth champion to successfully defend his title.

The immortal Popular Alm was the ground breaker thanks to his wins in 1981 and ’82 before Game Oro repeated the dose in 1985 and ’86.

It took another 26 years for the feat to be matched again, with Bitobliss becoming the third dual winner in 2012.

The trio achieved their slice of history in a ‘true’ Kilmore Cup by overcoming handicaps in a two-mile standing start.

As for Rock N Roll Doo, he faces his own handicap in the form of an outside of the front row draw over 2690 metres.

Despite the awkward starting position, trainer Michael Stanley is confident the son of Rock N Roll Heaven can retain his crown.

“It’s not an ideal draw, but it’s not the end of the world either,” Stanley said. “I believe he is the best stayer in the race, so I’ll be looking to turn it into a test of stamina.”

TAB’s Fixed Odds market reflects Stanley’s faith, with Rock N Roll Doo a $2.70 favourite.

Act Now is considered the biggest threat at $3.20 from the pole, with Better Eclipse on the third line of betting at $3.50.

“Given the way the draw has unfolded I’m probably going to end up outside the leader Act Now, with Better Eclipse behind him waiting for the sprint lane,” Stanley said.

“Like I said, I rate my bloke as the better stayer, so I’ll drive him accordingly.”