Rockstar Icon made his Coral Racing Club debut at Windsor on Monday, finishing 7th (12 ran) in a competitive two-year-old Novice Stakes race.

We caught up with trainer Oliver Cole and this is what he had to say about his debut performance:

We were delighted with Rockstar Icon’s first run. It was a busy day at Windsor with lots going on around the pre-parade and parade rings, but this horse was like a seasoned old pro. He took it all in his stride and didn’t turn a hair. That’s such a great asset for him to have as a 2yo, as it meant he didn’t waste any energy unnecessarily.

In terms of the race, he broke nice and sharply from the stalls, again a great plus, and travelled really nicely throughout the race, particularly as he was on the wide outside of the track. He’s always going to be a horse who needs a longer trip, so for him to run so well over six furlongs was really encouraging.

Rob [Hornby] gave him a lovely ride, and ensured the horse enjoyed his first day at school so to speak, and he will have learned plenty from the experience.

🗣️ “In terms of attitude and demeanour - he’s a real pleasure.” @rob_hornby18 gives us his thoughts after Rockstar Icon’s debut at @WindsorRaces 👇 pic.twitter.com/zxcjpEZIqF

— Coral (@Coral) May 29, 2023

Finally, I’m delighted to say he was in good form the morning after the race. He ate up, another sign of his wellbeing, and tells us how well he took the exertions of a race day. We won’t rush him, but there’s plenty to look forward to, especially when we step him up in trip. 

Oliver Cole, Coral Racing Club Trainer