Remaining coy on whether a few bionic parts have been added, Fred Spiteri has certainly bounced back from surgery like harness racing’s Six Million Dollar Man.
Forced into the operating room a couple of months ago, Spiteri spent winter on the sidelines before returning to the fore last week.
Scoring first-up in Bendigo on October 22, Spiteri completed a double in Kilmore 24 hours later.
Making the trip to Shepparton last night, Spiteri was in the winners’ circle once again to remain unbeaten from three trips to the track since his return.
“I had back surgery, which put me out for winter,” Spiteri said. “It was just a bit of maintenance as I’m getting old and things are wearing out.
“I’m almost as good as new and am enjoying having the team at the races again.”
Spiteri’s latest success came via Champagne Charlie, which overcame a 50-metre handicap to capture the Kyabram Trotters’ Cup.
With Chris Alford holding the reins, Champagne Charlie rated 2:01.5 over 2190 metres as Alfies Always and Bennie And The Jets filled the placings.
“Charlie has come back really well,” Spiteri said. “He seems to be handling the standing starts a lot better, so that’s where I will try and stick with him for now.
“Getting three winners is not a bad way to start off, but my partner Mandy deserves the credit.
“While I was on the couch, Mandy was doing the work and put a couple on the jogger for me so I could get rolling.
“I’m getting all the credit when she’s done the hard yards for me!”
Photo: VSTA (Victorian Square Trotters Association)
