Chris Gangemi excited by return of stable pin up

Excitement is building in the Gangemi stable as top prospect Repossession returns to the track this Saturday, with trainer Chris Gangemi eyeing bigger targets later this season.

After making a strong impression with a dominant win in last year’s Placid Ark Prelude (1000m), Repossession resumes in the Free Entry To Belmont Park Handicap (1000m), where he’s expected to face a strong test first-up.

Repossession will carry 60kg and meet a high-class opponent in Kay Tee Why, trained by Adam Durrant. The Durrant runner heads betting at $2.60, with Repossession second favourite at $3.50, followed by Desert Whisper at $6 and Earthstorm and Anaballistic at $8.50.

Despite the challenges, Gangemi was thrilled with the gelding’s recent trial effort, which saw him win by three lengths in just 23.01 seconds.

“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 has drawn barrier six, with regular jockey Brad Parnham booked again. A solid performance would set him on course for the Listed Beaufine Stakes (1000m) later this winter.

Stablemate Sebonack also resumes on Saturday in the Lawn Pride Australia Handicap (1000m), but Gangemi says expectations are more measured for the five-year-old.

“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.”

Currently at $15, Sebonack will jump from barrier six under Shaun McGruddy.

Those following Repossession or targeting the Beaufine Stakes and WA racing action can find odds and updates on top Australian betting sites.