Co-trainer Ben Hayes is expecting Caulfield Cup winner Boom Time to relish a step up in journey as he continues his most recent comeback from injury.
Boom Time runs for the third time following the enforced break in Saturday’s Vo Rogue Hall Of Fame Trophy (2000m) at Flemington.
It was at the corresponding meeting 12 months ago that Boom Time recorded his most recent win, strolling to 4-3/4 length win.
That victory had Hayes, his co-trainer father David, who also owns the gelding, and cousin Tom Dabernig, eagerly awaiting spring.
But plans were shelved after Boom Time suffered a suspensory injury at his return run in the PB Lawrence Stakes at Caulfield.
Unable to be worked, Boom Time lost residual fitness built-up during a short early winter campaign.
Boom Time made his return at Caulfield last month, finishing last over 1400m before stepping up to 1800m and beating three horses home on May 4.
“He had that long time off and he’s needed a couple of runs to improve his fitness base,” Hayes said.
“He’s a very lazy trackworker at home so I’m hoping with those couple of runs under the belt he’ll be a big improver.
“Both runs this time he’s kept going past the line, so the 2000 metres, it’s going to suit him again.”
With his history of leg issues, Boom Time has returned to Lindsay Park’s property at Euroa to continue his training between races.
Hayes said the uphill training tracks and the associated aids of a swimming pool and water walker were beneficial in Boom Time’s fitness regime.
“That’s him, he needs racing to get fit and when he gets fit he goes really well,” Hayes said.
“We’re ticking him over, keeping him happy and I know the owner would love another win with him.”
Lindsay Park took advantage of Lachlan King’s 3kg when Boom Time carried 59kg last year and have enlisted Lewis German this time around to lower the gelding’s weight to 60kg.
“Lewis is riding well and is getting his chance in town,” Hayes said.
“He’s making a few mistakes, but he’s young and improving all the time.”
