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26-year-old trainer Josh Formosa is hoping to write a few more chapters in the fairytale story that is Blue Kermaro during the rich Dream Chasers Festival.

Just three weeks ago, the Formosa-trained Blue Kermaro changed the lives of his connections forever when landing the $1 million first prize in the Million Dollar Chase at Sydney’s Wentworth Park.

Adding to the remarkable storyline was the fact owner Ben Peart only purchased the dog in February for just $10,000 on the advice of Formosa, following two unplaced runs in NSW.

But while still revelling in the Million Dollar Chase victory, Formosa’s focus is firmly fixed on the upcoming Dream Chasers Festival, beginning with Saturday night’s Group 1 Topgun at The Meadows.

“It’s been a big few weeks obviously but not a lot has changed – when you are training dogs you’re always on the go,” Formosa said.

“My partner Korie and I will watch the replay a few times here and there to relive it but that’s about it.

“I said that night that it was really just the start for the dog and I do believe that. He’s got it all ahead of him still. Improving all the time.”

While proud to have his name etched onto the honour roll of NSW’s biggest race, Formosa said the idea of landing some major silverware in his home state of Victoria would prove equally satisfying.

Connections celebrate after Blue Kermaro landed the Million Dollar Chase

And while bookmakers have largely discarded Blue Kermaro’s prospects, installing him the $18 outsider of the Topgun field from box five, Formosa remains confident that his rising star is up to the task.

“He’s had 10 starts at The Meadows and missed a place once – he loves the place,” Formosa said.

“Saturday night is obviously a big step up in class again but there’s dogs in the field that he beat in the Million Dollar Chase so he’s proven that he can do it.

“He hasn’t raced since Sydney but he trialled well last week and I’ve just been trying to keep him fresh because he needs to begin in this race.

“He’s naturally very strong so finding the line with him is never a problem.”

Following the Topgun, Formosa plans to throw Blue Kermaro’s hat in the ring for the Group 3 Shootout before a tilt at the Group 1 Melbourne Cup.

He holds hope of securing a The Phoenix slot as well.

“I haven’t had any calls about The Phoenix but I think the Topgun is probably a mini audition for a few of us,” he said.

“The thing I love about the dog the most is that he’s always up for the fight and thrives on competition.

“I sometimes question myself with how good he is but he just keeps stepping up to the plate.

“As I said, I think the best is really still ahead of him.”

 Original Article provided by Adam Dobbin for The Greyhound Recorder