Queenslander Martyn adds international flavour to NZ apprentice raceday 

Queensland hoop Leah Martyn will add some international flavour to the Apprentice Raceday at New Plymouth on Friday, where she will have seven rides on the eight-race card.

Leading Kiwi apprentice Amber Riddell enjoyed competing in Australia’s National Apprentice Race Series (NARS) at Eagle Farm in April, and now it is New Zealand’s turn to play host, with Martyn taking up New Zealand Thoroughbred Racing’s invitation to compete in the country’s annual apprentice-only raceday.

Martyn arrived in New Zealand on Monday and is rapt to get the opportunity to experience riding in a different country, a worthy consolation after being ruled out of the NARS through injury.

“I was supposed to go to Hobart for our apprentice series, but I had a fall the week before and I got stood down, so I couldn’t go,” Martyn said. “Because I missed out on going to that they chose me to come over here, which is fantastic.”

Martyn’s injury proved to be a blessing in disguise, as it has resulted in her first international trip.

“I have never been overseas, and I have always wanted to go to New Zealand, so it is perfect,” she said.