Gizmo returns for Cup campaign


Get It Gizmo headlines Thursday’s opening TAB Melbourne Cup Prelude in his first race at the track since last year’s Cup final.

He spent the first half of 2020 on the sidelines due to injury. It’s taken a while but a rushed return was the last thing on trainer Harry Manolitsis’ agenda.

“It always takes time coming back from a hock injury. His return could’ve come earlier but I wanted to be patient and give him more than enough time,” said Manolitsis.

‘Gizzy’ resumed in August and after five runs on the provincial scene he returned to city racing at The Meadows where he registered a sensational come-from-behind win.

“His wins leading up to that at Sale and Bendigo were also very solid. To see him win like he did at The Meadows from an awkward position was very pleasing.”

He found no luck in a TAB Million Dollar Chase city qualifier at Wentworth Park, but after a hot trial at Sandown Park on Saturday he’s fit and ready heading into Thursday’s TAB Melbourne Cup Prelude.

“He ran 29.36 (5.08, 18.94) in his trial and I was happy with that. He got knocked around at Wentworth Park and it wasn’t much of a hitout.

“He’s always been strong. In his maiden start at Shepparton his run home was off the chart. In his Cup heat last year, he was less than a length off Hooked On Scotch’s run home when he broke the track record.”

Thursday’s Cup Prelude is Race 8 and Gizmo will jump from box 4.

“The speed in the race is from Music Event and Special Talent. I don’t think he can lead but if he can settle in a striking position through the catching pen area I’ll be happy.”

Greyhounds must compete in a Prelude or have won an exemption race to be eligible for the Cup heats. Gaining eligibility early was important for Manolitsis as he plans to target the G1 Hume Cup heats at The Meadows on Saturday October 24.

“I’ve always wanted to get him over 600m and I feel now is the right time.”

Click here for Thursday’s fields
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Get It Gizmo (4) cuts loose in his 2019 Cup heat
Jason Adams
About Jason Adams - Racing Operations Coordinator at Sandown Park. Over 8 years involvement in greyhound racing and one of the sport's biggest and most passionate fans.
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