Champion Sprinter To Make Shock Racing Return

REIGNING Australian Greyhound of The Year Simon Told Helen is poised to make a shock return to racing.

But surprisingly it won't be under the guidance of the man that steered him to four group 1 victories with David Burnett replaced by champion Queensland trainer Tony Brett.

It was in late January that the ownership group of Simon Told Helen elected to retire the son of Barcia Bale to stud at Meticulous Lodge following a decorated career which netted 26 dazzling wins and $912,691 in prizemoney.

Interest at stud had been significant for the prized sprinter but unfortunately for connections his transition from the racetrack to the breeding barn proved problematic.

“He had some minor fertility issues that needed time to sort out so the owners made the decision to use this time to bring him back into work with the view to race again while we continue to monitor his fertility,” said Michelle Westerveld.

“Retirement to stud duties will be reviewed along the way but in the meantime we wish the dog all the success as he returns to racing.”

The resumption of Simon Told Helen's racing career will see his quest towards becoming a $1 million stake-earner revived.

Currently on $912,691 in stakes, Simon Told Helen's group 1 successes have come in the Maturity Classic, Silver Chief, Perth Cup and Harrison-Dawson, while he's also finished runner-up in the Melbourne Cup, Topgun and Dapto Megastar.

His remaining group successes have been in the Group 2 Geelong Cup, Group 2 Queensland Derby, Group 3 Cup Night Sprint and Group 3 Great Chase, performances which played a significant role in the star chaser receiving Australian Greyhound of the Year honours in 2019/20.

When retirement was called in late January the hugely gifted sprinter was acknowledged as one of the best greyhounds of his generation.

But it turns out that was only Act 1.

What will Act 2 bring?

Well, only time will tell.