Battle lines are drawn in the Martin household with father and son set to go head-to-head at Ascot on Saturday.
Family loyalty will be cast aside when Wes Martin and his dad, John, go for bragging rights in the Listed Gimcrack Stakes (1100m).
Wes, still on a high after Jedaffair won the Natasha Stakes (2200m) last week, hopes his winning ways can continue with Tommy Blue.
The Gingerbread Man filly enters her race debut off a tidy trial win over 950m at Lark Hill on March 11.
John, who is having another crack at ownership after the retirement of gun mare Yankee Rose, will look to get one over his son with, Aragain.
The Niagara filly also comes into her first race meeting on a successful note, winning her second educational hit out by 2 ½ lengths.
Wes admits the lead-up to the Gimcrack Stakes has made for an interesting week.
“It’s a little bit unique and a different feeling,” Wes said.
“We have been texting each other all week and it’s been good banter.
“I think he is a little more nervous than me at the moment.
“I would be extremely happy for either of us to win.
“I know it would make him really pleased.
“I suppose if Aragain wins I can’t lose really.”
Just like his own relationship with his father, Wes says Tommy Blue and Aragain have formed a tight bond.
“They were broken in together and have always worked together,” Wes said.
“I think Aragain was more forward early, but Tommy Blue has come through lately.”
Tommy Blue has drawn the second widest gate in the field of 14. Jordan Turner has been booked for the ride.
Joe Azzopardi, in one of his final Perth mounts before taking up his Singapore contract, partners Aragain from gate five.
Wes is confident Tommy Blue can overcome her wide barrier.
“I think there is going to be a lot of speed in the race,” He said.
“She will have to take a sit, but she is good.
“She won her trial easily and put them away.”
Meanwhile Wes says Jedaffair is on track for Saturday week’s WA Oaks (2400m).
“She is jumping out of her skin,” He said.
“She has pulled up real well.”
Julio Santarelli
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