It will be an emotional return to racing for connections when Spirit of Gaylard steps out onto the track at Geelong this Saturday to race for the first time in exactly 1000 days.
Spirit of Gaylard was a supremely talented Listed-winning 3yo for Mitch Freedman. He was last seen at the races at Caulfield in February 2022, beaten under 3 lengths at Group 2 level. Subsequently however, he has endured multiple tendon issues and rehabilitation programs to return him to this point. With two jump outs/trials under his belt and his soundness considered excellent, he is ready for his return.
Spirit Of Gaylard wins the Listed TAB Trophy in November 2021.
Spirit of Gaylard is a horse that means a great deal to his connections. Named in honour of the late Rob Gaylard, all owners of the horse were friends with Rob and race him with Karen, his wife.
Spirit of Gaylard makes his long-awaited return at Geelong contesting the Ballan Cup, a 1518m Benchmark 78. Rob was a familiar face at Geelong, as the on-course emcee for many years, so the stars have aligned for what is a fitting race return.
Win, lose or draw on Saturday, we are thrilled to again see Spirit of Gaylard at the races. While we hope he can return to his previous high-performance levels as a now six-year-old, we just want to see him happy, fit and well and enjoying his racing.
We thank Mitch Freedman, Matt Williams, and their respective teams for their efforts in rehabilitating and preparing Spirit of Gaylard for Saturday, along with Dr Andrew Cust and his team at Ballarat Vet Practice for their expertise in overseeing his program. It will be a special day for all involved.