Trainer Matt Laurie is setting his sights on Sydney after Vinrock’s impressive victory in the Group 2 VRC Sires’ Produce Stakes at Flemington.

Vinrock, who had won his maiden at Pakenham earlier in the month, made a bold move forward in the 1400m race, going on to defeat Brave Design ($7) by two lengths, with Onavuitton ($19) finishing third.

Laurie had a change of plans for Vinrock, switching his focus from a Bendigo maiden to the race at Flemington. “He’s a very tough horse,” said Laurie, adding that Vinrock’s ability to handle pressure was key to his success.

Vinrock’s win lifts his Golden Slipper prospects, with trainer Laurie saying, “He should run very well in the Slipper.”

Godolphin’s jockey Mark Zahra had initially trialled Vinrock over 1000m, which Laurie described as a strategic decision, setting the colt up for success at Flemington.