Rock ‘N’ The Jam might be on the brink of black-type but Ascot trainer Russell Stewart has called time on his current campaign following a stunning victory in the Belhus Racing Hcp (1600m) on Saturday.

A virtual newcomer, the 3yo gelding went back-to-back at Ascot and it was assumed the LR Challenge Stakes (1500m) in a fortnight would be the next stop on an autumn prep targeting the G2 WA Derby (2400m) in April.

“The shoes are coming off now and he’s going to the paddock,” Stewart announced after Rock ‘N’ The Jam let down with an irresistible finish to defeat 6yo geldings Justamiddy (God Has Spoken) and Forever Dreaming (Snippetson).

Jockey Steve Parnham went to the line with a few lengths up his sleeve confirming this call of the finish by Darren McAullay.  “Here comes Rock ‘N’ The Jam.  He spreadeagled the field and it’s all Rock ‘N’ The Jam.  He toyed with them.”

Smart money support that saw him firm from $2.15 into $1.80 was also spot on.  “I was a bit nervous going into the race as an odds-on favourite so it was good to see him live up to that hype,” Stewart admitted.  “That was only his third start and he’s still learning.  I will bring him back for the winter and then there’s a race here on New Year’s Day.”

Rock ‘N’ The Jam will go out and keep furnishing before coming back for the LR Belmont Guineas (1600m) in June followed by the LR Aquanita Stakes (2000m) and LR Belmont Classic (2200m) in July.

Stewart will give him another break ahead of summer goal in the 2026 edition of the G2 Perth Cup (2400m) on January 1.  “I know it’s long-range but if he’s got the talent it’s a million-dollar race and I will take that.”

Rock ‘N’ The Jam was bred and sold by Gold Front Thoroughbreds owners Alan and Sue Olive for $47,500 at the 2023 Perth Magic Millions Sale.  He’s by their Group 1 stallion Awesome Rock from a half-sister to G1 ATC Champagne Stakes (1600m) winner Carry On Cutie (More Than Ready).

Gold Front has entered 16 yearlings for the upcoming Perth Magic Millions.