Green edges closer to retirement

By Glenn Davis

Retirement may be edging closer for Rockhampton trainer Graeme Green due to upcoming knee surgery.

However, he isn’t looking past Friday’s meeting at Rockhampton where he hopes Shamedy can make a successful open company debut at Callaghan Park.

Shamedy – a Jackson Murphy mount – was one of the most expensive yearlings Green has ever bought when he paid $90,000 for the son of Better Than Ready at the Magic Millions sales at the Gold Coast.

“I also paid $90,000 for Astra Star at the Magic Millions January sale and the same for Mahia at QTIS March sale at the Gold Coast,” Green said.

“Shamedy will run in the Open Handicap and I’ve got Aleaco in the Benchmark 70."

Shamedy has had two runs back from a spell.

He finished second in a 1300 metre Class 6 Plate at Mackay on September 5 before a last start fourth in a similar race on September 28.

“He’s had two runs back and they walked in front which didn’t suit him in his last run when he ran fourth at Mackay,” Green said.

“His first-up run was enormous when he ran second as he went into the race a bit fresh.”

Green concedes tackling an Open Handicap for the first time will be a test for Shamedy but he’s hopeful the four-year-old can strike his best form.

“He’s stepping up to open company and he’s up against the big boys now,” Green said.

“But, he’s dropping back to 1200 metres which will suit a lot better him and he’ll be hitting the line strongly.”

Green is hoping Shamedy can make his way back to Brisbane at some point in the future.

“He’s won up to 1400 metres before in Brisbane so I’m hoping he’ll get out to 1600 metres in distance and head back to Brisbane soon,” Green said.

“Hopefully, it’s not too far away as I’m scheduled for a grease and oil change with an operation on both my front knees.

“I don’t expect the operation will be before Christmas but we’re already lining up other trainers to take our horses.”