Space Star’s impressive racing career may have been temporarily grounded, but he is ready to fly high at The Gardens today.
The impressive newcomer goes in the Greyhound Recorder Stakes (600m), chasing a sixth win in nine starts.
A bout of kennel cough has prevented the fast-rising novice, who already has a Wentworth Park victory to his name, from competing since early June.
Trainer Dawn Garrett said the unscheduled break may have been a blessing in disguise for her charge, who starts the race from box six.
“It doesn’t hurt now and then to have time off,” she said.
“It’s hard to say if The Gardens will suit him. He’s run there once (for a placing).
“I think the box will suit him and as long as he is concentrating fully on the race, he should be okay.”
The toughest opposition is likely to come from Cold Fiction (Box Two) and Box Three’s Melissa’s Boy.
Both greyhounds have clocked sub-35 second times for the distance.
Garrett said she had not yet mapped out a future plan for her dog, with building racing experience the main goal at the moment.
“We’re just going to move him around the grades,” she said.
“You’ve got to chase these 600m runs when you can.
“It looks like he is going to be a good dog, but as to how good – it’s anyone’s guess.
“It’s exciting and interesting to watch him develop.”
There’s more good news for Garrett, with her newcomer Tears Siam also on the comeback trail.
She has been out injured since her second race at Richmond in April.
Garrett said her bitch should be back in action shortly.
The race is the sixth of ten on offer at The Gardens, with action starting at 3.47pm.
For fields, form and expert tips, click here.
This is the first meeting at The Gardens under the stewardship of a new club board.
For more information, click here.
