Tried and proven regime

CONNECTIONS of Gym Junky hope the promising pacer can be the latest to derive plenty of success from a tried and proven regime.

Despite being among the best of his crop in South Australia – making him a big fish in a small pond – Gym Junky has been sent to New South Wales, where he will compete against a much larger pool of opponents.

Prepared in South Australia by respected horseman Paul Cavallaro, Gym Junky built a solid record of four wins and seven placings from 14 starts.

As he has done on three previous occasions, Cavallaro has transferred Gym Junky to champion trainer Luke McCarthy in search of better opportunities.

Several years ago Cavallaro sent quality pacer Culture King and multiple Cups winner Artillery to McCarthy during similar stages of their careers, while handy performer Buzz Bomb was taken interstate last May.

An eye-catching fifth at Club Menangle last Saturday night, Buzz Bomb has earned just under $30,000 as a result of three wins and two seconds from nine starts.

Cavallaro stated his decision to send Gym Junky to McCarthy was driven by the higher prizemoney.

“We tested the water with Culture King, and after It worked out so well, we then did the same with Artillery, which also did well with Luke,” Cavallaro said. “I always intended to send any others I felt were good enough over, which is why Buzz Bomb is there.

“Luke has him in terrific form and we couldn’t be happier.

“Gym Junky was always heading that way, so I gave him a break after his win in January and worked him up again before sending him to Luke.

“If you’ve got one good enough, the money in New South Wales is too good to ignore, which is why I’m happy to send them over.”

Making his first public appearance for McCarthy during a trial a fortnight ago, Gym Junky was a neck second in 1:55.1.

Fast forward to today’s Club Menangle meeting and Gym Junky will make his local racing debut in the fourth event on the card.

To be driven by Jack Callaghan, the son of Stay Hungry has drawn to search for the lead from barrier three.

“Luke is happy with the way he has come up and expects a good run from him,” Cavallaro said. “He’s got good gate speed, so barrier three will suit him.

“Hopefully he can start off with a win, but whatever he does first-up, he will improve on.”