In racing if it’s all about timing then the Gangemi stable are counting down to the Ascot Masters and Saturday’s $1 million Group 1 Heineken 3 Railway Stakes (1600m) with great delight.
Along with Dan Morton, Chris and Michael Gangemi are the hottest training act in Perth and importantly have their team firing on all cylinders at the right time of the year.
A couple of months ago the Gangemi brothers began a search to buy new horses to replace retired stars who hopefully would go on and progress to Perth’s major races.
Buying tried horses is not uncommon for the Gangemi’s, it’s right out of their playbook and their record confirms it has been a successful formula to apply.
Railway Stakes contender Massimo was bought for $150,000 after winning eight races and two Listed events for Adam Durrant.
The decision caught some by surprise who quizzed the price tag and the level of improvement to follow from one of the state’s leading horseman.
But after just three outings for his new connections, the Sessions five-year-old has delivered on the Gangemi’s investment and the faith they showed in him.
Following consecutive seconds in the Birthday Stakes (1200m), where he went into the race under an injury cloud and the Northerly Stakes (1400m), he won the Lee Steere Stakes (1400m), leading all the way for regular rider, Clint Johnston-Porter.
Massimo’s financial return to his new owners has reached $200,000 and Michael Gangemi says he can see no reason why he can’t add to that tally in Saturday’s Railway Stakes.
“It’s pretty rare you can purchase a horse and four months later be running around in features,” Gangemi told Tabradio.
“We are super proud of the horse in the three runs he’s had for us.
“The first one he was pretty much on three legs and toughed it out brilliantly.
“He just got pipped in the Northerly, so his main lead ups he just got beaten in a photo and won the Lee Steere at weight-for-age.
“Whatever he does now is a bonus, but there is no reason why he can’t win again.”
Notorious One will give the Gangemi’s a potent two-pronged attack in Perth’s premier mile race.
The lightly-raced six-year-old is stacked with ability; however, he can also be his own worst enemy.
He’s caused the Gangemi’s some grief along the journey but has shown signs of maturity this preparation.
He faces his biggest test after two runner-up finishes in the Farnley Stakes (1400m) and Asian Beau Stakes (1400m).
“He can do anything that horse,” Gangemi said.
“We just want to try and get him there in one piece.
“He’s an absolute headache, but has so much talent and raw ability.
“If he gets the right run and is on his best behavior there is no reason why he won’t be there at the finish.”
Clint Johnston-Porter retains his association with Massimo in the Railway Stakes. Dual winner Shaun O’Donnell will partner Notorious One.
