Gangemi’s optimistic Samizdat can rediscover his spark

Chris and Michael Gangemi have walked down this path before, but this time the brothers and co-trainers hope the trek might be a little different.

Their enigmatic gelding and yearling sale topper Samizdat is looking to maximise what could potentially be his final campaign of racing.

This is quite literally the last throw at the stumps for Samizdat who has been beset by injury and illness for the majority of his career.

The son of Not A Single Doubt has not been able to perform at his best or win a race since the Listed Belmont Newmarket (1200m) two years back.

But even though it’s been a lackluster 24-months, the Gangemi’s are cautiously optimistic Samizdat can rediscover his spark for racing again.

Their enthusiasm is based on his work behind the scenes and they’ll look at bringing him back to the races towards the end of Belmont’s season.

Michael Gangemi also added that treatment for a previously undiagnosed injury had sparked their enthusiasm for Samizdat’s return.

“We went to TeleMedVet and they uncovered an issue and problem with him,” Gangemi (Michael) told The Races WA.

“We went through him with a fine tooth comb in the past and could find nothing seriously amiss with him.

“If we didn’t take him to TeleMedVet it wouldn’t have been found otherwise, a fetlock concern.

“He’s back in work and will come back at the tail end of Belmont.

“He’s coming on, but we won’t really know until race day pressure.

“Since the treatment he seems a lot happier a horse.

“But if he doesn’t show something he will be retired.”

Samizdat was bought for $325,000 at the Perth Magic Millions yearling sale in 2017.

He’s won seven races from 31 starts and a touch over $600,000 in prize money.

His best wins came in the G3 Asian Beau Stakes (1400m), Listed Scenic Blast Stakes (1200m) and Belmont Newmarket (1200m).

Meanwhile Money Matters warmed up for his return by winning a Lark Hill trial on Monday.

The six-year-old will race first up in the Listed Beaufine Stakes (1000m) on July 8.

Former Sydney galloper True Detective will launch is Perth debut in the Beaufine.

The six-year-old won a G3 race at Randwick for previous trainer, Chris Waller.

Injury has ended Mercanto’s career after seven wins from 19 starts and $242,950 in earnings.

Mercanto bows out of racing a winner after defeating Don’t Fuss and Mood Swings at Belmont last August.