After more than a year away from the racetrack, Enotis is finally ready to make his long-awaited return, carrying with him not only raw ability but also a compelling rehabilitation story shaped by patience, experience, and belief. The former Hawkes Racing-trained galloper will resume in Saturday’s Magic Millions Digital Handicap (1500m) at Caulfield Heath, marking a significant milestone for trainer Belinda Dunn, whose expertise in restoring injured horses has once again been put to the test.
Enotis has not been seen in competitive action since August last year, sidelined by a tendon injury that would have discouraged many prospective buyers. But where others may have seen risk, Dunn saw opportunity. Purchased for just $4,500 through an online sale in May, Enotis arrived at the Dunn stable as a long-term project rather than an instant success story. What followed was a carefully structured rehabilitation program designed to give the gelding every chance to return stronger and sounder.
A Trainer Who Thrives on Rehabilitation Challenges
Belinda Dunn has built a reputation for taking on horses others might overlook, particularly those returning from injury. Her confidence in the process is grounded in years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of equine recovery.
“He had a tendon injury, and we like fixing horses that have had an injury, and we have done well with them,” Dunn said.
Rather than rushing Enotis back into work, Dunn implemented a slow, methodical plan focused on long-term soundness. The approach involved extensive slow work, strategic breaks, and consistent veterinary checks to ensure the horse’s readiness at every stage.
“We do all the rehab work. Lots of slow work, a bit of time off, and he’s gone through all the checks and he’s right to come back to the races.”
Integral to this process has been Dunn’s husband, Paul Dunn, whose background in harness racing has proven invaluable when dealing with tendon injuries.
“My husband, Paul Dunn, is an old trotting guy, and he’s very good with tendons.”
A Crucial Advantage for Melbourne Racing
One of the more intriguing aspects of Enotis’ injury history is the specific leg affected, which Dunn believes could work in the horse’s favour now that he is returning to racing in Victoria.
“The best part of this horse, he did the Sydney leg (offside foreleg), so there won’t be as much pressure being put on that leg going the Melbourne way.”
This subtle but important detail highlights Dunn’s technical understanding of biomechanics and track direction—an insight that underlines why Enotis’ comeback has been so carefully planned.
Building Fitness Through Structured Jump-Outs
Preparation for Saturday’s return has included four jump-outs, each designed to progressively build Enotis’ fitness and confidence. His first public hit-out came at Pakenham in late October, with the most recent jump-out occurring earlier this week over 1000 metres.
The early work revealed just how much improvement was needed, particularly in terms of conditioning.
“After his first jump-out he dropped 12 kilos,” Dunn said.
“He had a bit of weight on him when he came in, but he came in great order. He’s happy to be back but I think he’s a run short and will get a lot of benefit from it.”
Dunn is realistic about expectations first-up, acknowledging that race fitness can only be fully regained under competitive conditions.
“I think he’ll run a nice race, but having such a long time off, you’ve always got to say his race fitness is not there yet.”
A New Base, Familiar Routines
Earlier this year, the Dunns made a significant lifestyle and training change, relocating from Tatura to the Yarra Valley. The move has allowed them to combine the tranquillity of a rural environment with access to top-tier training facilities.
Their 11-acre property is used for slower conditioning work, while trips to Pakenham are reserved for faster gallops and jump-outs. Dunn has been particularly impressed with the flexibility and quality of the Pakenham facilities, especially the regular opportunities to trial horses under race-like conditions.
The balance between home-based conditioning and professional-grade infrastructure has played a key role in Enotis’ smooth transition back into full work.
Still Riding at 66, Still Leading by Example
At 66 years of age, Dunn remains deeply hands-on, continuing to ride trackwork herself. While she leaves the jump-outs to others, her daily involvement ensures she has a close connection with each horse in her care.
For Saturday’s assignment, Enotis will be partnered by Thomas Stockdale, a rider entrusted to guide the gelding through his first race back after an extended absence.
A Stable Favourite with Personality to Match
Beyond the technical preparation and physical recovery, Enotis has also won hearts around the stable with his larger-than-life personality. Dunn speaks of him with unmistakable affection, describing a horse who knows he’s special.
“He’s the biggest dude, this horse. All he needs is a comb and a mirror, and he’d be fine,” she said.
“He’s a lovely horse.”
That blend of talent, character, and resilience has made Enotis more than just another runner returning from injury. For the Dunn stable, his comeback represents validation of their patient approach and belief in second chances.
A Return That Means More Than Just a Race
While Saturday’s Magic Millions Digital Handicap may be just one race on a crowded program, Enotis’ appearance carries deeper significance. It’s a testament to what can be achieved with time, expertise, and trust in the rehabilitation process. Whether or not he wins, simply making it back to the races is already a success story.
For Belinda Dunn, Enotis embodies everything she values in training—careful horsemanship, resilience, and the quiet satisfaction of seeing a plan come together after months of unseen work. As the gates open at Caulfield Heath, Enotis won’t just be resuming his racing career—he’ll be showcasing the power of patience in modern thoroughbred training.
