Born To Rock tackles Gr.1

Group One action for the stable on Saturday with up-and-coming filly Born To Rock taking her place in the $500,000 Tattersall's Tiara at Eagle Farm.

Impressive leading throughout to take out the Listed Gai Waterhouse Stakes at Ipswich last Saturday, the lightly raced bay faces a tough task from barrier 14 but we are hoping she can earn some lovely Gr.1 black type.

"It is in an unfavourable gate," Michael Moroney said, "but she will press forward. It does look a strong version of the race so it is a step up in class and she is not at all well in at the weights - but we are hopeful."

A daughter of hot young stallion Fastnet Rock from the family of influential stallion Storm Bird, Born To Rock is already a valuable filly but Gr.1 status would certainly elevate her value all the more.

Earlier in the day we saddle up Viking Hero in the Gr.3 $200,000 Tattersall's Cup and he is horse well and truly due a change of luck.

Striking severe interference in the Premier's Cup two starts back he was then trapped wide in a slowly run Brisbane Cup.

"He endured a torrid run," Moroney said, "but hopefully from this nice gate (3) he will get a better un this time and prove hard to beat."

No runners at Flemington on Saturday but we do have a couple at the Ararat meeting, kicking off with Caligula Kid in the opening event, an 1100m maiden.

A solid seventh beaten only five lengths at debut, the son of Holy Roman Emperor has improved since.

"I saw him work this week and think he has really picked up since his first run," said Moroney who added that he was "happy with that debut effort."

Cedar Point races later in the day, due to contest the 1600m maiden and looking well placed despite drawing out wide.

"It's a tricky gate but he has been knocking on the door and the heavy conditions will suit him - he should prove hard to beat."