Repossession is quickly building a reputation as one of WA’s most exciting young gallopers and will aim to underline his potential in Saturday’s Listed Beaufine Stakes (1000m) at Pinjarra Park.
Brad Parnham will again partner the three-year-old, who is unbeaten this preparation with two strong victories under his belt, including a commanding win down the Pinjarra straight over Magnique and Art Session.
This weekend marks his first outing against older competition, and co-trainer Chris Gangemi is eager to see how the rising star performs.
“He’s only had the six starts, so he’s got to this level quite quickly,” Gangemi told Racing WA Thoroughbreds.
“If he happens to win this week, then that would get his rating up nicely for later in the year.
“We’re pretty confident he will end up in open class.
“He’s matched it with the good horses and produced the work of a good horse all along.”
Repossession’s only two defeats came in the Max Simmonds Stakes (1000m) and Placid Ark Stakes (1200m), where he finished fourth both times.
Despite a hoof abscess briefly interrupting his preparation, Gangemi is optimistic.
“He’s had four weeks between runs and had a hoof abscess last week, so it hasn’t been the ideal prep,” he said.
“He only missed three days with the abscess, which came on Friday.
“He worked well yesterday, and Brad was happy with him.
“We would’ve liked a problem free prep, but hopefully he will still be good enough.”
The stable will also saddle up Phanta, who returns after a break since the Group 3 Eurythmic Stakes (1400m). He ran fifth in a recent Belmont trial behind Final Siren.
Gangemi said wet conditions would be key to Phanta’s performance.
“He’s had a really good preparation,” he said.
“He’s working well and trialled really nicely.
“It’s pretty simple with him that he’s no hope if the track isn’t wet.
“He’s got three or four races at this time of the year where he has a chance to win one.”
Repossession is a clear favourite at $2.30 for the $125,000 contest, while Phanta is currently rated a $12 chance.
Also in action for the stable is Earth God, lining up for his second start under Gangemi in the Hygain Handicap (1000m).
If you’re looking to back Repossession or explore other betting options in the Beaufine Stakes, visit the top Australian betting sites for the latest odds and promotions.
