Veteran pacer Artillery returns to the track
VETERAN pacer Artillery is primed for a triumphant racing return.
Sent for a well-earned spell following a solid campaign last April, Artillery is engaged in tonight’s Globe Derby meeting.
Thriving during his time off, the eight-year-old heads into his assignment on the strength of four impressive trials.
Winner of each hit out, Artillery rated 1:55.2 over 1800 metres on July 20 – more than two seconds quicker than his fastest race victory this season!
Rapt with Artillery’s performances, trainer Paul Cavallaro is confident the son of Art Major can add to his impressive record of 30 wins and 42 placings.
“This is the best he has felt in a long time,” Cavallaro said. “The time off did him the world of good and he has come back feeling terrific.
“You can say he didn’t beat much in the trials, but it is the way he did it with quick times and big margins.
“He’s certainly ready to go on the weekend.”
Cavallaro is set to partner the gelding, which is an early market favourite despite being the widest drawn in a field of six.
The Ryan Hryhorec-trained stablemates Our Indifference and Last Tango In Heaven are considered the main dangers from barriers four and five.
“Ryan’s pair will take some beating,” Cavallaro said. “They’ve got the form on the board and fitness on their side.”
- Story Paul Courts
- Photo Walter Bulyga