Big Energy Eyes Adelaide Cup Redemption

AFTER narrowly finishing second in last year's Adelaide Cup, Big Energy will return to South Australia looking to go one better in 2024. 

With Kel Greenough overseas, Big Energy is in the care of leading South Australian trainer Ben Rawlings with the winner of more than $500,000 to return to Victoria following the completion of the series. 

FIELDS AND FORM ANGLE PARK THURSDAY NIGHT

Big Energy hasn't been seen at the track since the start of August when he contested the Victorian National Distance series and has taken some time to adjust to life in the Rawlings kennel. 

"He came over and had a trial and he didn't go very well but he flew in on a Thursday and trialed on the Saturday," Rawlings said. 

"I spoke with Kel and he said he's a sensitive dog who likes plenty of attention so with the change up and trial, he might not have been feeling great." 

With some more time in the kennel, Big Energy has continued to improve with a strong second trial giving Rawlings cause for optimism heading into the heats. 

"He had a trial box to box last Sunday, and he went really good, he went 5.20 and 17.50 to the back so that's obviously good," Rawlings said.

"Now he's settled in he is a different dog.  He's drawn six so I don't know if that is ideal but the vacant box inside probably helps. He does want things to go his own way, so we will see what happens, but he's obviously a very fast dog and I am excited to just be able to put him around."

After recent injuries to kennel stars Riot Rooster and Peaky Boo, Rawlings' only other runner in the series is Fear The Dragon which has put together an excellent resume since coming to SA, winning at four of six starts. 

"Fear The Dragon has drawn box seven which is where he wants to be, but he was a little bit disappointing last week in the run home," Rawlings said. 

"He's beginning a lot better now but not quite running home as strong, he did have a week off the week before, so I am hoping he runs it out a bit stronger."

Rawlings will have a busy night with Western Australian Steve Withers staying with Rawlings. Withers has a pair of runners including dual Group 1 winner Uncle Tommy to contest the heats.

"Steve is staying with me with Kanan Stark and Uncle Tommy so we will be hoping for them as well. Kanan Stark has drawn well and Uncle Tommy has a heap of early pace but needs to get over from box eight."

Racing gets underway at 6:37pm local time with the first heat of the Adelaide Cup at 8:08pm.