Pop Rock has been retired to stand at Napajedla Stud in the Czech Republic.  Now a rising 10 year-old, he bowed out following an injury sustained in the Irish St Leger in September.

The Japanese bred son of Helissio started 40 times for 8 wins but is best known for his close seconds in the 2006 Melbourne Cup and 2007 Japan Cup.  He was beaten a short-head by stablemate Delta Blues at Flemington and a head by Admire Moon in Japan’s signature event.

Pop Rock (9h  Helissio – Pops by Sunday Silence) had been based in Ireland this year and won the Guinness Race (2800m) at Galway in July before his final start in the Irish St Leger.  

Pop Rock is by Arc de Triomphe winner Helissio who shuttled to Widden and left G1 Victorian Derby and Caulfield Guineas winner Helenus.  He originally retired to WA but is now standing at Woodside Park in Victoria.

Pop Rock’s dam Pops has foaled 7 other minor winners by Jade Robbery, El Condor Pasa, Sakura Bakushin O, War Emblem, Kurofune (2) and Falbrav.  She has a yearling filly by Symboli Kris S. and a weanling colt by Jungle Pocket.