The pedigree suggests some substance. Rock In Japan is by Japan, and runs from a mare by Jukebox Jury — decent bloodlines that hint at the kind of horse that could compete seriously. Trainer Ralph Beckett, based at Kimpton in Hampshire, has been sending out winners all season — 107 of them so far — which tells you the yard is in form and competent. Beckett knows what he's doing, and a horse arriving at the racecourse from his stable is a horse that's been properly prepared. That counts for something when the gates open and the real work begins.