Plaintiff Set For Stunning Racetrack Return

STAR sprinter Plaintiff is set to make an against the odds and inspiring comeback to racing at Geelong on Friday night.

Last seen when finishing a close-up and courageous third in the Group 1 Melbourne Cup last November, Plaintiff was tragically struck down with injury just days out from representing slot holder Neds in last year's rich The Phoenix.

In his final hit-out before contesting the $1.65 million showpiece at The Meadows, the son of Zambora Brockie broke a hock in a trial, where it was thought his racing days were over.

FIELDS AND FORM GEELONG FRIDAY NIGHT

Following the injury and subsequent surgery it was envisaged that a return to racing was more unlikely than likely but such has been the success of his recovery, the 17-time winner is poised to make his return on Friday night.

In a recent clearance trial at Shepparton, Plaintiff covered the 385m journey in a smart 21.62, by far the fastest recorded that day.

“He's going well, not showing us he's back to where he was but that's to be expected given what he's been through,” trainer Jason Thompson said.

“It's just a bloody good effort for the dog to get back to the races at all. All he wants to be is a race dog and you can see that with everything he does. Touchwood the hock is great, no soreness or anything and he's good to go.

“Friday night is the first time past 400m since he's come back so if he led and got run down I wouldn't be overly disappointed.

“It's just a good starting point and where we end up down the track will be how he handles it all. Anything from here is a bonus.”

Winner at 17 of his 32 starts and placed on another 10 occasions, Plaintiff, a son of Zambora Brockie and Appointed, has amassed $269,245 in prize money earnings for trainer Jason Thompson and owner Amanda Tullio.

While on the sidelines, the regally bred performer has been popular at stud, covering some well-bred broods while working towards the possibility of a return to the track.

As to what heights the gifted performer can reach given his long-term injury remains unknown, considered just a success to return to the track in the first place.

Plaintiff is drawn to contest race eight from box two on Friday night, a 4/5th grade event over the 460 metre journey.

He's unbeaten in two starts at the track and distance.