In today's instalment of 2021/2022 Rapid Reflections, we feature a quickfire round with Denise Martin, owner of Star Thoroughbreds.
TDN AusNZ: Favourite racing moment of 2021?
Denise Martin: Our exciting filly Espiona winning the Desirable S. at Flemington on VRC Oaks Day.
TDN AusNZ: What are you most looking forward to in the new year?
DM: Hopefully a world where COVID doesn’t dominate the headlines!
Espiona, winner of the 2021 Listed Desirable S.
TDN AusNZ: Who is your favourite racehorse of this year?
DM: Verry Elleegant most likely as she provided our star trainer Chris Waller with his first Melbourne Cup win and demonstrated again why he is the Champion trainer.
TDN AusNZ: Who is your favourite stallion, and why?
DM: From those who are already established, I’d nominate I Am Invincible but looking forward we have high hopes for our own D’Argento who is now standing his second season at Bowness Stud in NSW.
TDN AusNZ: Which stallion do you believe is the best physical type?
DM: I Am Invincible but with an honourable mention to Anders.
Anders | Standing at Widden Stud, image courtesy of Bronwen Healy
TDN AusNZ: What was your best purchase in 2021?
DM: We have some beautiful 2-year-olds, however our Hellbent x Crystal Rock filly is the half-sister to the highly talented sprinter Big Parade, so she is not only a great racing prospect but also potentially a valuable broodmare at the end of her race career.
TDN AusNZ: Favourite binge-worthy television show?
DM: The Undoing.
TDN AusNZ: Name an emerging human talent in the industry, and say why?
DM: Charlie Duckworth, assistant trainer to Chris Waller. His commitment and energy is exceptional - and thankfully he finally got a haircut recently!
TDN AusNZ: Who do you think will take out 2022 first-season sire honours?
DM: Hellbent – we bought some lovely types by him at the 2021 sales.
Hugh Bowman, Denise Martin and Chris Waller
TDN AusNZ: What do you consider the greatest sporting moment this year? (not solely racing related)
DM: Ariane Titmus because (as a fellow Tasmanian) it was brilliant to see her perform at the highest level in Tokyo.
TDN AusNZ: What's the first overseas trip you will be taking for fun post-COVID?
DM: Japan again - it’s the greatest country and their racing is remarkable.
TDN AusNZ: What's your 2022 New Year's resolution?
DM: The same as every year… to try to buy our next champion.
