Grand Impact to make long-awaited return in Bel Esprit Stakes
Grand Impact is poised to make a long-awaited return to the track after a 16-month hiatus, with his comeback slated for the Listed Bel Esprit Stakes (1200m) at Caulfield this Saturday.
Trained by Mick Price in partnership with Michael Kent Jnr, the four-year-old entire boasts an impressive record, having secured victory in his first three starts, including a notable win in the Group 3 Blue Sapphire Stakes (1200m) over Saturday’s course and distance back in October 2022.
However, his last appearance saw him finish 12th behind In Secret in the Group 1 Coolmore Stud Stakes (1200m) at Flemington in the same month.
Price shed light on the challenges Grand Impact faced during his absence.
“He’s had 16 months off. We discovered a condition called OCD in a shoulder – osteochondritis dissecans,” Price said.
“It’s where you get a lesion of cartilage flake off and it’s in the weight-bearing joint surface.”
Despite the setback, Price expressed optimism about the horse’s current condition.
“He’s had plenty of time off, but he’s had plenty of time down at Lauriston Park on the beach and he’s in good condition now.
“He seems sound, but I’d be surprised if after all that time off he’d come out and win. Hopefully, he runs well and then trains on.”