Hector Fawley Set For The Phoenix Onslaught

WATCH out The Phoenix hopefuls … Hector Fawley is on his way and he's ready to rattle some cages.

That is the word from first time slot holder Total Container Solutions after snapping up the powerhouse chaser for their assault on the $1.65 million showpiece at The Meadows on Saturday week.

Trained by Lisa and Ian Cockerell, Hector Fawley is set to add plenty of intrigue and excitement to The Phoenix given his booming finishes and never say die racing style. 

"Couldn't be prouder and more excited at the same time," a jubilant Lisa Cockerell said.

"The whole family is over the moon about getting into the Phoenix. The kids finish up school this week and they're already off tap with excitement.

"A dog like Hector Fawley is a once in a lifetime and to be in a race like The Phoenix means the world. But we are trying not to get too caught up in it all because there's still a job to do.

"But keeping a lid on things isn't easy."

Winner at 17 of his 43 starts, Hector Fawley, a son of Bernardo and Rolando Hooch, was bred and is raced and trained by the Cockerell family.

Three starts back the gifted chaser with an ever-growing fan base raced away for victory in the Group 1 Hume Cup (600m) at The Meadows before finishing second to Big Energy in the Group 3 Shootout (515m).

At his most recent appearance he came from the clouds to go down by the barest of margins in a heat of the Group 1 Melbourne Cup, the herculean performance sure to be in discussions for Run of the Year.

"While he didn't win, to do what he did in that heat was amazing, we were just so proud of him," Cockerell added.

"He's an amazing animal and I know whatever happens he'll do both us and Total Container Solutions proud in The Phoenix.

"And wherever he finishes on the way home he'll get his nugg(et)s and shake and his massage vest. Like always."

The inclusion of Hector Fawley in The Phoenix adds a whole new dynamic to the $1m-to-the-winner flagship event.

While all eyes will be on the leaders, there won't be a racing fan that's not quickly glaring back to see where Hector Fawley has landed in the run.

Because if he's within striking distance, no one is safe.

"I think that's a big reason why they (Total Container Solutions) went with him," Cockerell added. "He just brings that much excitement to his race.

"He never gives up and is never out of his races.

"Total Container Solutions have been great to deal with and we are really appreciative of the opportunity. We are having a lot of fun already."

Tackling The Phoenix means Hector Fawley will now miss the Group 1 Sale Cup (640m), a race in which he was a pre-post favourite for.

"An opportunity like this (The Phoenix) doesn't come along every day," Cockerell added.

"Down the track we'd love to give him his chance at stud so being in a race like The Phoenix can only help that.

"We are all just pinching ourselves. Christmas has definitely come early!"

Hector Fawley is $8.50 for The Phoenix with bookmakers.