“Work in progress” makes winning debut

PATIENCE were rewarded at Tabcorp Park Melton yesterday.

Described as a “work in progress”, Rock The Nation made a triumphant debut for trainer Bradley Costello.

“He came to us six or eight months ago and had a few issues with his knees,” Costello said. “He gets on his knee quite badly and has just needed time.

“Rob (Jones, owner) has been very patient with him as he has been a work in progress.

“To have him come out and win at his first start is as big a relief as it is a thrill.”

Driven by Costello’s son Kyal, Rock The Nation paced greenly but well enough to lead from the pole as Extortion worked on his outside.

Allowed to roll along at a steady tempo, the son of Rocknroll Hanover strode 10 metres clear of the pack around the final bend.

Shortening stride close to the line, Rock The Nation held on to score by two metres from Our Safari Sun, with Extortion battling on bravely to be a metre away third in 1:59.3 over 2240 metres.

“He’s had three trials but hasn’t been asked to do much so he was in need of the run,” Costello said.

“Kyal said he got lost when he kicked away and found himself on his own and didn’t know what to do, which comes down to experience.

“Kyal has been taking him to the water walker and down to the beach…he has put in a lot of work into the horse.”

Yet to decide when Rock The Nation will have his next start, Costello plans to continue to take his time with the four-year-old.

“I’m not sure where he will go next,” Costello said. “I will give him a few days in a paddock now then see what is around.

“It will be 10 to 14 days before next his start which maybe be in Melton again in a fortnight.”