It was a wonderful victory for the Chris Svanosio-trained runner Gotfeelingsyouknow, who powered to a strong win on Saturday night at Melton. Stable foreman Ross Payne took the reins and expertly guided the horse to a confident victory.
“It was so rewarding,” said a very happy Payne after the victory.
“I’m sure Snooze (Chris Svanosio) is just as happy as me. He has put a lot of time into this horse, and he knows how good he is. It’s just good to do things right.”
Gotfeelingsyouknow drew barrier three in the Haras Des Trotteurs Trot. From the start, he showed dazzling gate speed to take control of the race, then powered away in the final stages to defeat stablemate Remus Phoenix, finishing with an impressive mile rate of 1.56.9.
“He is pretty good!” said Payne. “If I can get him trotting 100 percent, he’s just not 100 percent through that last quarter. I just don’t know how far he will go. He was in first gear.”
The lightly raced five-year-old had only ten starts prior to this event and was making his first appearance in 281 days. The talented gelding’s preparation was interrupted by hoof issues, which kept him sidelined for a significant period.
“He had a bad quarter crack when we got him, and that took a long time to get right. Then he had another issue with the same foot. So we have given him a lot of time and put him out for a good spell. The foot came right, and he’s got an abundance of ability. I have never held onto a horse so tight in the last bit.”
Payne also shared his view on Gotfeelingsyouknow’s place within the stable, describing him as the second-best trotter on the farm. He’s just a step behind Arcee Phoenix, who is currently in Brisbane with Chris Svanosio preparing for the upcoming Inter Dominion campaign. The team's other very talented mare, Aldebaran Acrux, is in Queensland as well with Svanosio. The first round of heats for the series is scheduled for this weekend, Saturday the 5th.
“Arcee Phoenix, hopefully he can win the Inter Dominion. I think he can.”