Like any ‘child’ Choculaar has given Michelle Zammit plenty of heartache but now the growing pains are over and she is really starting to fly.
The fast-improving bitch starts from box four in the Unibet Stakes (330m) at Richmond today aiming to make it three wins in a row.
Western Sydney-based owner/trainer Zammit worked hard to nurse the dog, who was originally a give away from Victoria, back to health after the bitch was laid low for several months with acidosis.
It was hard work but the effort is paying off for the 32-year-old, who works out of Londonderry.
“It’s pretty exciting,” Zammit said.
“I’ve tried to do everything right by the bitch to get her back to health. To see her going so well is a really good feeling.
“I do love her a lot – I call her my third daughter.
“I’m ecstatic that she is going so well.”
Since returning to full health earlier this year, Choculaar has really hit her straps.
She has only failed to place once in eight outings over 400m since April – all at Richmond – and is clocking consistently around the 23 second mark.
“She has shown that she can jump well,” Zammit said.
“I think she will get to 500m eventually but I’m happy to take my time with her.”
Choculaar may find it tough with to secure the hat-trick with recent consecutive winner Klienzan also in the field.
Taylor Buzzard (box seven) is appearing at the track for the first time but has impressed on five previous outings at regional tracks and may also be worth considering.
A big danger also lurks in the shape of All Gassed Up in box one.
He has been struggling recently and has limited experience at 400m level but is a multiple winner with a solid placing record.
All Gassed Up is trained by Zammit’s brother John grief so things could certainly get interesting pre and post-race.
“I think (All Gassed Up) will go okay,” Zammit said.
“All the dogs in a race like this are threats when you get them in the box.
“I’ve said to my brother that if I can’t win, I hope he does.”
Ten races are on offer and action starts at 3.27pm.
For Richmond fields, form and expert tips, click here.
