Six-year-old Money Matters will showcase his winter credentials at Belmont and the Gangemi brothers think he can make a bright start to his campaign on Saturday.
The likelihood of a wet track and the 1000m of the Beaufine Stakes has co-trainers Chris and Michael Gangemi believing Money Matters has the right conditions to suit.
The gelding has been off the scene for six months and is aiming for his first win in two years, but Michael Gangemi said there was something to take out of a recent trial.
The son of Canford Cliffs wasn’t knocked around or fully tested by apprentice jockey Brandon Louis when leading and defeating four other horses comfortably at Lark Hill.
“He wasn’t let out of second gear, it was more so having a nice pipe-opener for him,” Michael Gangemi said on Tabradio.
“He had a really nice gallop this morning (Tuesday) and I’m very happy with the piece of work.
“He’s been really set for this race and we’re really excited to see him.
“He really does like the soft going, if he can get the sting out of the track on Saturday over 1000m I think he’s our best chance.”
Money Matters won 10 races for previous trainer, Adam Durrant, highlighted by the Group 3 Roma Cup (1200m) and the Listed Breeders’ Classic (1400m) and Lex Piper Stakes (1600m).
He joined the Gangemi operation in Bullsbrook after being bought for $150,000 in a sale.
Money Matters will be one of two Beaufine Stakes runners for the Gangemi stable, the other being recent acquisition, True Detective.
The six-year-old won five races for Chris Waller and has had two warm up trials for his Perth debut.
“The 1000m might be a little sharp for him,” Gangemi said.
“Money Matters is a genuine 1000m horse.
“He’ll have the run under his belt and when he steps up to 1200m, 1300m and 1400m I think that’s when he’ll come into his own.”
Before acceptances, Money Matters has drawn barrier 10 for Shaun O’Donnell.
True Detective jumps from gate 12. Clint Johnston-Porter has been booked for the mount.
The Gangemi’s collectively are chasing their third Beaufine Stakes after Chris had success with Durendal (2018) and Rock Magic (2015) as a solo trainer.
Belmont is currently rated a soft 6 with rainy conditions predicted for Perth this week.
