Can Of had endured a miserable few months but trainer Beau Hedley hopes his greyhound can return in style at Maitland’s Thursday meeting.
The promising sprinter, who won five of his ten races and went around the 520m at Wentworth Park in a storming 29.47 before injury struck, goes from box eight in the Donna McMahon Appreciation Stakes (450m).
Hedley has only given him one trial – at Maitland – prior to his return but is hopeful the greyhound can return as good as new.
“He does seem to be back where he was,” Hedley said.
“He is definitely ready to run the 450m looking at how strongly he came home (in the trial).
“It’s been very frustrating (and) you definitely get a bit anxious waiting for race day, but hopefully he can come back strongly.”
Can Of was building a strong reputation before sustaining a stomach injury while racing at Wentworth Park back on May 24.
He had recorded good wins at the Sydney track, Gosford and Unibet Gardens before being sidelined.
It could be a testing return at Maitland, with opposition including handy performers Hardaway Law (box four) and Kicking Rocks in box six.
“It’s a good little race,” Hedley said. “There are some dogs with real ability.
“I think the box draw he has got will help him stay out of trouble. He can get the win.
“I guess we want to see him finish the race off nice and smart and be competitive as well.”
Hedley said he was hoping to take Can Of back to the city if all goes well and prepare the greyhound for a crack at the Group 2 Bob Payne Spring Sprint at Wentworth Park.
The $40,000 race kicks off with heats on Saturday, September 20.
“If he can replicate his times like 29.50 and his first sectionals, he is up to that class,” Hedley said.
Hedley said he also has high hopes for Gralin, who goes in the tenth race at Maitland.
The promising chaser has placed on all five of his outings so far.
Meanwhile, Lightest Touch gets his first outing since winning the Group 3 Laurie Healion Memorial Maiden earlier this month at Unibet Gardens on Friday.
Jean Kelly’s promising newcomer goes box eighth in the final race of the day, the Unibet Lucky Last Stakes (515m).
For Maitland fields, form and expert tips, click here.
For Unibet Gardens fields, form and expert tips, click here.
