Stable newcomer kicks off at Caulfield Heath races

Belinda Dunn’s reputation for patiently rebuilding injured horses will be tested again when Enotis resumes at Caulfield Heath on Saturday.

The former Hawkes Racing galloper has not raced since August last year but will kick off his campaign in the Magic Millions Digital Handicap (1500m).

Dunn secured Enotis for $4500 at an online sale in May and committed to a slow, methodical recovery from a tendon issue.

“He had a tendon injury, and we like fixing horses that have had an injury, and we have done well with them,” Dunn said.

“We do all the rehab work. Lots of slow work, a bit of time off, and he’s gone through all the checks and he’s right to come back to the races.

“My husband, Paul Dunn, is an old trotting guy, and he’s very good with tendons.

“The best part of this horse, he did the Sydney leg (offside foreleg), so there won’t be as much pressure being put on that leg going the Melbourne way.”

Preparation for the gelding’s return has included four jump-outs at Pakenham, the latest coming over 1000 metres on Tuesday.

“After his first jump-out he dropped 12 kilos,” Dunn said.

“He had a bit of weight on him when he came in, but he came in great order. He’s happy to be back but I think he’s a run short and will get a lot of benefit from it.

“I think he’ll run a nice race, but having such a long time off, you’ve always got to say his race fitness is not there yet.”

The Dunns have recently shifted their base from Tatura to the Yarra Valley and make regular trips to Pakenham for faster work, utilising their own property for slower conditioning.

Dunn praised the convenience and quality of the Pakenham training environment.

Despite being 66, Dunn still rides trackwork herself, while Thomas Stockdale will take the race-day reins.

She admits Enotis has quickly won over the stable.

“He’s the biggest dude, this horse. All he needs is a comb and a mirror, and he’d be fine,” she said.

“He’s a lovely horse.”

Punters looking to bet on Enotis can check markets via Australia’s betting sites list.