It has taken former New Zealand track rider Kyle Stammers six years but he is set to launch his training career at Kalgoorlie on Sunday.
Stammers, a qualified mechanic, left New Zealand to explore work opportunies in Western Australia and linked up with trainer Greg Harper in 2008.
He then headed north and joined veteran horseman Tom Pike in Broome and Darwin before answering a call from Kalgoorlie trainer, Paul Smythe.
“I was heading back home when Paul rang and offered me a job,” said Stammers.
“I was told if I ever had the opportunity to work in Kalgoorlie I should grab it with both hands.
“I’ve been here for four years and will continue to work with Paul who has been very supportive.
He encouraged me to have a crack and has been really good about it, although I must admit I’m feeling the nerves.”
Like Stammers, Fast Ale is heading into unchartered waters in the Helloworld Cruise & Travel Kalgoorlie Handicap (1300m).
The former Sydney galloper, who has one win and eight placings from 32 starts, will make his maiden Western Australian appearance.
The Tale of the Cat six-year-old hasn’t raced in close to two years since finishing ninth of 11 to Domesman at Wyong.
Boosting Stammer’s confidence has been Fast Ale’s trial performances: one win and a second placing in two 1100m hit outs.
“I’m not expecting him to break any track records and my main thought is that he gets around safely,” said Stammers.
“I think he a bit of ability and that’s the reason I have been patient and brought him along slowly.
“He might need the run and I certainly don’t want to give him a gut-buster first-up.”
Despite his first foray into training Stammers has no plans to expand his operation beyond Fast Ale.
“I’m content to potter around with just the one and continue to ride track work for Paul,” said Stammers.
Stammers’ says Smythe’s Goldbo is a mare who continues to impress after she claimed her second win from three starts last week.
“She is a nice horse with some ability,” said Stammers.
“She is a flighty mare and the trick is to get her head right.”