Chris Gangemi is looking forward to the return of promising three-year-old Repossession this weekend, a horse he rates highly and hopes can rise to Stakes level in the near future.
Repossession returns in the Free Entry To Belmont Park Handicap (1000m), having last raced in November when he led throughout to win the Placid Ark Prelude in impressive style. While expectations are high, Gangemi knows the task won’t be easy.
He resumes with just one 400m trial under his belt, will carry topweight of 60kg, and faces serious opposition in Kay Tee Why, an in-form rival from Adam Durrant’s yard who has opened as the $2.60 favourite. Repossession is rated a $3.50 chance, ahead of Desert Whisper at $6 and both Earthstorm and Anaballistic at $8.50.
Repossession impressed in his trial, running slick time and displaying better manners at the barriers—something that’s been a concern in previous starts.
“Really happy with the trial, his action was beautiful, he was mainly there for barrier practice,” Gangemi said on Tabradio.
“He’s been a bit hit and miss in the barriers throughout his career, really, a bit funny in the gates.
“Brad (Parnham) said he behaved himself and jumped cleanly and quickly.
“That was the main reason he was there and we’re hoping he can do the same on Saturday.
“If he can put himself in a spot, I’m sure he’ll be right there in the finish.
“He looks a million bucks, bigger and stronger.
“He hasn’t had a 1000m trial and carries 60kg, so it won’t be easy, but I do think he’s come back a better horse.
“He’s not fully wound up but is fit enough to win if he gets the right run, for sure.
“We’re out there to win and it’s pretty exciting for the stable.
“Hopefully he can win a couple and come back for races over the carnival.”
Repossession will jump from gate six in a competitive nine-horse field, with Brad Parnham retaining the ride. Gangemi hopes this prep will lead to the Listed Beaufine Stakes (1000m) at Belmont in July.
Gangemi also saddles up Sebonack in the Lawn Pride Australia Handicap (1000m), who is having his first WA start and is somewhat of a mystery runner.
“He’s a tried horse who could go either way,” Gangemi said.
“His trials have been ok and if he’s to run a race it might be first up.
“It wouldn’t surprise me if he came out and won or it wouldn’t surprise me if he ran down the track.”
Sebonack, drawn in barrier six with Shaun McGruddy booked, is listed at $15.
To follow Repossession’s journey to the Beaufine Stakes or explore betting options in WA racing, visit the leading Australian betting sites.