New stable recruit set to shine again
Paul Vettise • September 19th, 2025 11:21 AM • 3 min read
Martell made an instant impact in his first appearance from his new quarters and more of the same is forecast at Gore.
The former Jim Collett-prepared sprinter made a successful South Island debut at Wingatui earlier this month and is expected to go close to adding Sunday’s Advance Agriculture Open (1100m) to his record.
He will head a strong hand for trainer Kelvin Tyler who will also be represented by Go Lotte, while stablemates Vamos and Prince Alby are top chances in the Kevin Coyle Memorial Open (1800m).
The Riverton horseman will also be keeping a close eye on the Marton meeting at Trentham where Freddie Time steps out in the Nufarm & Property Brokers Handicap (1400m).
El Roca six-year-old Martell has now won seven of his 26 starts and Tyler is understandably bullish about his chances on Sunday.
“He’s a good horse and Jim Collett did a great job with him. The wet track’s not going to hurt, it’s a winnable race for him again,” he said.
“It’s still the same ownership group and you couldn’t get a better horse to work with, he’s fitted in well and we’re very pleased to have him.”
Stable stalwart Go Lotte posted consecutive placings before she tailed the field home last time out at Riccarton.
“She got back and they kicked off the front that day with the rail out, so it was hard for her,” Tyler said.
“She’ll go a nice race on Sunday, she’s won 10 races so she’s obviously a good horse, but Martell will probably be a bit sharp for her.”
Tyler also favoured his last-start Riccarton winner Vamos over Prince Alby in the other open handicap.
“His work has been great, he’s a beautiful black horse and is very genuine so he’ll take some stopping,” he said.
Prince Alby was a resuming fourth behind Martell and is on a path toward a November staying feature at Riccarton.
“If he had got a bit more room the other day he may have given him a run for his money,” Tyler said.
“He’s come through it well and is heading toward the New Zealand Cup (Gr.3, 3200m), but I don’t think he’s up to Vamos at this stage.”
Trentham hope Freddie Time finished fourth when resuming at Ōtaki earlier this month in his first appearance since a disappointing Queensland venture.
“I was rapt with him and his work has been unreal, he should be a great chance on a wet track in a small field,” Tyler said.
“He pulled a muscle in Australia, so we brought him back and instead of bringing him down south for the winter we parked him up at Howie and Lorraine Mathews’ place and he’s still there.
“There’s another good race for him at Ōtaki in three weeks’ time, so he’ll keep ticking over up there.” – LOVERACING.NZ News Desk
