The year 2024 has been challenging for Jihad Talgi and his standout greyhound, Schillaci, the unexpected victor of last December's The Phoenix at The Meadows.
Since that remarkable triumph in the world's richest greyhound race, Schillaci has competed in ten races this year without securing a win, though he has placed second four times, including in the G1 Australian Cup.
The offspring of Hard Style Rico and Flying Hareeba, Schillaci turned three last month. His last race was on April 18 at Angle Park, where he finished fifth as the favourite in an Anniversary Cup heat.
Schillaci, a four-time G1 finalist, has been out of action due to a broken toe but is on the verge of making a comeback.
"Schillaci broke his little toe on the right front leg about nine weeks ago during a free gallop," explained owner/trainer/breeder Jihad Talgi from Pearcedale.
"The cast was removed six weeks ago, and an x-ray three weeks ago showed it wasn't fully healed. The vet, Des Fegan, advised bringing him back for another check-in in three weeks.
"I'm taking him to Des tomorrow for another x-ray. If everything looks good, we'll start his training again.
"Assuming we get the all-clear, I'll give him another week off just to be cautious. He'll gallop for a couple of weeks before I start trialling him. I'll likely begin with short trials at Shepparton, which he enjoys, and then proceed from there."
Talgi acknowledged the frustration of having his prized greyhound sidelined. "It's heartbreaking to see him in his kennel doing nothing," he said. "Especially a dog with his talent.
"There's a lot of interest in him. Many people have asked about his status and why he hasn't been racing."
"He's in good spirits, bouncing around and eager to run."
"If everything goes well, he should be back racing within the next six weeks, and I'll focus on preparing him for the Adelaide Cup (heats on October 3)."
Schillaci rose to fame in Adelaide last spring, winning the G3 SA Derby and starting as the favourite in the G1 Adelaide Cup Final, where he finished seventh.
Talgi has a clear goal in mind for Schillaci's future. "I'd love to get another invite for The Phoenix!" he said.