Lemaire keen on Rock claims

Christophe Lemaire believes High Rock can prove a leading contender for the French Derby following his victory at Longchamp on Sunday.

The Jean-Claude Rouget-trained colt burst clear to win the Prix La Force by six lengths, despite pulling ferociously in the early stages.

The Rock Of Gibraltar colt put himself spot on for a crack at the Prix Du Jockey Club and his jockey believes he is the ideal type for the 10-furlong event.

“Maybe he will be the French Derby winner. Yesterday he was a little bit fresh and the pace was very slow,” said Lemaire.

“He pulled a little bit all the way but when I brought him out from the field, he showed very nice acceleration and he won very easily.

“He’s very powerful and a very clever horse and I hope he will be in great condition for the French Derby.

“He has the speed to do the trip at Chantilly and he is a great hope for Jean-Claude Rouget,” he told At The Races.