Top driver Greg Sugars has a lot to anticipate at Menangle, with the return of a promising pacer, Fighter Command, who nearly faced a life-threatening issue. Fighter Command, a four-year-old pacer, caught the attention by winning nine of his first 12 starts and securing a spot in the TAB Eureka, the world’s richest harness race. However, just days before the race, he underwent emergency surgery for a twisted intestine, putting his racing future in jeopardy.
The retirement of champion trotter Just Believe left a void for Sugars and Jess Tubbs, but Fighter Command emerged as a hopeful replacement. The horse’s raw talent and potential were evident in his early successes. After recovering from the critical surgery, Fighter Command is now back in action, impressing Sugars and Tubbs with his recent performances and readiness to compete again.
Sugars expressed cautious optimism about Fighter Command’s return, acknowledging the challenges of regaining form after a life-threatening ordeal. Despite the setbacks, Fighter Command’s resilience and potential have placed him among the top pacers trained by Sugars and Tubbs, alongside multiple Group 1 winner Better Eclipse.
Fighter Command’s upcoming target is the prestigious Chariots Of Fire, a significant race where top pacers showcase their skills. While Sugars had hoped for a lead-up race before the event, Fighter Command’s draw on the outside gate poses a considerable challenge in the sprint races at Menangle. Nevertheless, the team remains optimistic about the horse’s abilities and potential for success in future races.
Looking ahead, Fighter Command is set to compete in the TAB Eureka in September, following a potential Queensland winter campaign. Sugars highlighted the exciting races lined up for Fighter Command, emphasizing the horse’s promising future and the team’s high expectations for his upcoming performances.
Aside from Fighter Command, Sugars has a busy schedule at Menangle, partnering with champion Kiwi trainer Mark Purdon and star trotter Oscar Bonavena. Additionally, Sugars will be driving Always Hot, a pre-race favorite for the Group 1 NSW Derby, further adding to the anticipation and stakes of the upcoming races.
The return of Fighter Command symbolizes resilience, determination, and the unwavering spirit of harness racing competitors. As the sport continues to evolve, stories like Fighter Command’s comeback serve as a testament to the dedication and passion of those involved in the industry, shaping the narrative of harness racing’s future.
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