Rosberg stamps his potential in the 2025 McKenzie Stakes

Trainer Clinton McDonald had his emotions tested at Moonee Valley, first watching former stable runner Angel Capital capture the Chautauqua Stakes, then celebrating when his new colt Rosberg stormed home to win the Listed McKenzie Stakes (1200m).

Angel Capital, winner of last year’s McKenzie Stakes for McDonald, was sold to Yulong Stud and is now with Chris Waller. While that loss still stings, Rosberg quickly softened the blow, living up to his lofty reputation. Backed into $3.40 favouritism, the son of Deep Field held off Stay Cosmic ($20) by half a length, with Bacash ($5.50) in third.

McDonald, who once trained alongside his father during the career of champion Weekend Hussler, said Rosberg has flashed similar raw brilliance. “I’ve always thought he’s special,” McDonald said. “Angel Capital’s win was tough to watch, but this colt is showing the sort of things that make me think of the Hussler. It’s exciting.”

Rosberg’s spring campaign is mapped out towards the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes at Flemington, with the Group 2 Danehill Stakes likely along the way. Jamie Melham, substituting for suspended husband Ben, was thrilled by the colt’s attitude. “He’s still learning, but he’s a weapon,” she said. “He hated being on the inside and still won, which tells you how good he is. There’s so much more to come, and he’ll improve again for Ben next time out.”