Classy Canberra sprinter Fell Swoop will make his return to racing in Melbourne on Cup week.

The now seven-year-old, Fell Swoop was last seen when running down the track in the Group 1 TJ Smith at Randwick in April.

Trainer Matt Dale says the gelding has benefitted greatly from the break.

“His coat is much better and he’s as free-moving as I have seen him for some time," Dale says.

“He’s jumped out and has won a Moruya barrier trial and is ready to go.

“There are two Listed races on the Tuesday and Thursday of Cup week that we have our eye on.

“Things were too rushed to undertake his normal Melbourne program.”

Canberra sprinter Fell Swoop Photo by Racing and Sports

Fell Swoop was considerably down on form at his last two preparations and Dale trusts the his slow build up to the Melbourne sprints will see him back competitive again.

Dale’s recently acquired stayer Shangani Patrol will be seeking the hat-trick and a city double when he competes in tomorrow’s BM 76 at Warwick Farm over 2400m.

“We purchased him nine weeks ago at an Inglis sale in Melbourne and he’s fitted into our routines very well.

“The first-up win at Canberra was a confidence builder and the Warwick Farm win following was also encouraging.

“We had spots in the stable for a couple of staying types and he’s a 2000m plus horse who goes into the race in good order.”

Dale has Rapture Miss nominated for Saturday’s TAB Highway Handicap at Randwick, but again, it’s doubtful any of the Canberra-based horses will get a run, with balloting preference given to NSW country-trained gallopers.