Racing: Michael Pitman on mend after cancer surgery

Trainer Michael Pitman.

Early indications are positive for Riccarton trainer Michael Pitman, who underwent surgery for bowel cancer on Monday.

The 63-year-old, who trains in partnership with his son Matthew, prepared Savvy Coup to win last Saturday's Livamol Classic (2040m).

The daughter of Savabeel will now head to Melbourne for a clash with Winx in the Cox Plate (2040m) on October 27 and Pitman is hoping to recover in time to be trackside.

"We were anxiously waiting yesterday," Matthew Pitman said.

"He was meant to be in theatre for five hours and he ended up being in there for about 7, but other than taking a bit longer than anticipated, it went pretty well from what the surgeon told us.

"I've spoken to Dad this morning and Mum has been in to see him.

"He's well and he has got his phone back, so he is sitting there in hospital watching races. "He's a bit drowsy and a bit sore, but all went well."

Savvy Coup will travel to Melbourne next Wednesday to give the dual group one winner 10 days to prepare for her toughest assignment to date.

"Mum will go over with her and Savvy Coup is a mare that loves travelling," Pitman said.

"She got back [from the North Island] yesterday afternoon and was straight into her feed. The run hasn't knocked her around one little bit and she looks as bright as ever.

"There is possibly improvement in her yet and we are very happy with her."

- NZ Racing Desk