He does not quite occupy top billing in the popularity stakes just yet, Rock Magic has that mantle, but he is not far behind in the pecking order.
Sold for $150,000 in an online auction sale, Massimo won eight races and a touch over $700,000 in prizemoney under previous trainer, Adam Durrant.
Michael Gangemi, who trains in partnership with his brother, Chris, cites Massimo’s first two runs for the stable as to why he’s won their admiration.
The Sessions gelding ran second to Uni Time in the Black Heart Bart Stakes (1200m) after going in under an injury cloud following a foot abscess.
He then ran a gutsy second to Dance Music in the Northerly Stakes (1400m) after leading, beaten a whisker after the pair staged a two horse battle in the straight.
Gangemi is hoping it’s a case of third time lucky when Massimo tackles Saturday’s WAROA-Lee Steere Stakes (1400m) at Ascot.
“He’s been unlucky in his first couple of starts for us,” Gangemi told The Races WA.
“He had that foot issue and then led on a day that didn’t favour the on pacers.
“He’s become a stable favourite because of his toughness and durability.
“And I’ve never had a horse who holds condition like he does.
“He is enjoying being in a new environment.
“Coming from Adam (Durrant) we didn’t have to do too much, but he’s raised the bar again.
“He has to elevate another time and you need luck in these bigger races.
“But he is spot on and his final gallop on Tuesday was what we wanted.
“He’ll give this race a big shake.”
Massimo has drawn barrier six and will be in the hands of Clint Johnston Porter.
The five-year-old is rated $7.50 with Tabtouch. Ahead of him are Regal Power ($3.70), The Velvet King ($4.80) and Valour Road ($6.50).
Dance Music is also at $7.50.
The Gangemi stable are looking to extend their winning form after an Ascot double on Tuesday with Go Forward and Mercanto.
Meanwhile the Gangemi brothers have added to their stable stocks following the buy of Apple Schnapps.
The son of Alfred Nobel won five races from 16 starts for former trainer, Lindsey Smith.
Last start Apple Schnapps defeated Smashing by a nose carrying 61kg.
