Taylor ‘searchin’ for 2025 Belmont Sprint victory

Trainer Sharon Taylor is optimistic that Searchin’ Roc’s can deliver a strong showing when she tackles her ideal distance in the Group 3 Belmont Sprint (1400m) at Belmont on Saturday.

The six-year-old mare made her return in The Joey (1200m), finishing ninth, but Taylor was pleased with the late ground she made up despite the distance being shorter than preferred.

“She’s much better suited at 1400m — it’s definitely her pet distance,” Taylor told Racing WA. “Her run in The Joey was solid, and her closing sectionals were impressive, especially after settling back from a wide barrier.”

With barrier one on Saturday and Jessica Valas booked to ride, Taylor says Searchin’ Roc’s is in the right condition to run a big race.

“She’s going to need a bit of luck from the draw to find clear running, but she’s in fantastic shape,” Taylor said. “She’s improved since her first-up run, and I couldn’t be happier with her at home.”

Searchin’ Roc’s is rated a $61 outsider by online betting sites, while West Star leads the market at $2.80, followed by Western Empire ($4.80), Bustler and The Boss Lady ($8), and Magnificent Andy ($9).

A wet track would only boost her chances, with five of her career wins coming on soft or heavy ground, including the 2023 Listed Idyllic Prince Stakes.

Transferred to Sharon Taylor from Jim Taylor’s stable, Searchin’ Roc’s has added several stakes wins to her name, including the Group 3 Peters Stakes and Listed Farnley Stakes.

“She’s a happy mare, going as well as ever,” Taylor added. “If we get some rain before the weekend, even better.”