One Cup down, another to go

FRESH from becoming his family's latest feature winner, Offyarocka Crocker will begin his quest for a second Cup on Tuesday night.

By Art Major, Offyarocka Crocker is from broodmare gem, Aratusa Lass, which boasts 10 winners from 10 foals.

Aratusa Lass' stock includes Group One winner Major Crocker, which was retired last season following a successful northern hemisphere career.

The first SA-bred pacer to earn more than $1million, the son of Art Major won 73 races - 43 in North America - with his best time of 1:49.2 registered at Pocono Downs in 2019.

Aratusa Lass is also the dam of Group Two winner Adam Crocker, Listed Classic winner Innocent Crocker and dual Group One placegetter Eve Crocker.

As for Offyarocka Crocker, he added to the clan's collection by securing last night's Pot Of Gold at Globe Derby.

With trainer Samantha Hill in the cart, the gelding did all the work from the 'death seat' before scoring from Euro Beat and Always Steamed Up.

Rating 2:00.5 over 2230 metres, Offyarocka Crocker took his record to four wins and two placings from seven starts since joining Hill's stable last December.

"It was a huge run," owner Gary Crocker said. "All credit to Sam for the win.

"Not only does she keep turning him out looking a million dollars, she out drove them last night.

"Once she got to the breeze she controlled the tempo and got the most out of him up the straight."

Enjoying a "well-earned day off", Offyarocka Crocker will be kept fresh ahead of the Mount Gambier Gold Cup heats.

Engaged in the second qualifier, the six-year-old will begin from the middle of the back row.

"I'm not concerned about the draw," Crocker said. "I'd say Sam will put him into the race early.

"As long as he gets through to the Final on March 15 I will be happy."