 |
|
| Staff Writer |
 |
Little Vic will represent former Major League Baseball star Victor Martínez in Dubai as the five-time MLB All-Star turned passionate owner takes aim at the Gr.2 Godolphin Mile.
Martinez, who became involved in racing after he retired in 2018, signed for the son of Practical Joke himself at the Keeneland September Yearling Sale in 2020. His US$50,000 outlay proved a great catch, being rewarded with earnings of US$566,010 since.
However, the Venezuelan is unwilling to take the credit for the shrewd purchase.
"I don't know anything about horses, so the trainer, Juan Carlos Avila, picks them out and we really got lucky with Little Vic," he said.
"He's been the best horse I've owned besides (2020 Tampa Bay Derby winner) King Guillermo. He took us to the Kentucky Derby but unfortunately two days before the race he got a fever, and we had to scratch him."
Martinez, who got into racing by growing up near a track in Ciudad Bolívar, has been luckier with Little Vic. His most recent eight career wins came Jan. 25 in the Gr.3 Fred W. Hooper Stakes at Gulfstream Park, over one mile, the same trip he will face in the Godolphin Mile.
"I named him Little Vic because in my playing times my playmates used to call my son Little Vic," continues Martinez, who has all his horses with fellow Venezuelan Avila. "Like every athlete he has his ups and downs, but he's done great for us."
Little Vic will also be the first Dubai runner for Avila, but his owner is travelling to Dubai along with his wife, Margaret, confident their 107-rated colt is up to the challenge.
"Juan Carlos was telling me that Little Vic was asking for more distance," he continued. "By the end of last year, he went for a seven furlong (Mr. Prospector Stakes at Gulfstream) and he did well, getting beat by Mufasa, who's going to be in the race, and (2023 Breeders' Cup Classic winner) White Abarrio. He finished strong after coming out of the gates slowly.
"In his last race Juan Carlos wanted to go for a mile and he ran great, so when we got the invitation, we were extremely happy to give it a try."