Not too many racehorse owners around the world get the chance to lead in a winner at the age of 18 years.
The young Travis McGrath was on hand at Fairview in Port Elizabeth this past Friday to do just that after the first race.
He is the owner of the two-year-old filly It’s Freezing which won a Juvenile Plate over 1 400 metres with Warren Kennedy in the saddle.
Yvette Bremner, who is having a wonderful season, trains the filly.
Asked how he felt to lead in his first winner, McGrath said it was an indescribable feeling. “I am the captain of a water polo team but this is much better than winning any sports match.”
His dad, Hedley, has been one of the leading owners in Port Elizabeth for some time and got him his owner colours for his 18th birthday.
“I got more and more interested in racing since moving to PE from East London. Through Yvette’s stable I got closer to the horses and I like the gambling part since I turned 18,” explained Travis.
“I have been doing some work at stud farms and have gone to sales and find the breeding side very interesting as well. The best aspect of the sport is no doubt the thrill of leading in a winner.”
McGrath said he had five horses in training at the moment.
It’s Freezing is the only one he owns on his own but he has four horses with Bremner and one with Alan Greeff (in partnership with Dr Ashley Parker).
His partners with his other horses in the Bremner stable are his dad, Ian Leviton and Mark Wright.
Racing operators dream of getting people like McGrath – youngsters with a love for the game – to the racetracks on a regularly basis.
“Most of my friends don’t know anything about racing and are flabbergasted with what they see on their first visit. They usually come back again.
“I think more marketing must be done, targeting the younger market to get them to the races. I know Fairview is a bit out of town but get a band at the track and get a vibe going.”
Also read Henk’s Hint and Tips.
