Te Akau First Timer - Ready, Set, Go!

We’re thrilled to share a very special story that was sent to us by one of our newest Te Akau owners. Based on the West Coast of the South Island, he joined the Te Akau family last year after purchasing a share in an I Am Invincible filly.

Now named I Am Aria, she made her race debut just two weeks ago in the Group 3 Blue Diamond Preview at Caulfield - finishing a brave second, beaten only three-quarters of a length. It was an outstanding first performance on a big stage.

What makes the moment even more special is that our new owner made the long journey from Westport to Caulfield to be there on the day — a “virgin” journey, as he charmingly described it (his words, with a smile). We’re so grateful he has allowed us to share his reflections with you.

Reading his story is both wonderful and humbling. It captures, so beautifully, what racing is really about — hope, adventure, connection, and the simple joy of following a dream. It’s a powerful reminder of just how much this sport can give back, often in the most unexpected and meaningful ways.

Te Akau Virgin – Ready, Set, Go!

As a fresh-faced syndicate owner with a modest share in I Am Aria, I'd spent months eagerly devouring updates as Aria prepared for her big debut. After a promising jump-out in January, the target was set: 24th January, Blue Diamond Preview (Fillies). Then came the wait – she's in the field! The draw happens – thumbs up, she'll start! Brilliant! Only 2.5 days to sort flights and accommodation in Melbourne. Easy.

Being my first time at Caulfield and my inaugural outing as a Te Akau syndicate participant, I wasn't entirely sure what happened when you rocked up to the gates. No worries though – Karyn sends through the owners' pass for the members' stand, and some sage advice from a seasoned mate: "Get there early, head for the downstairs lounge beside the parade ring, claim a couch." Sound strategy.

It's an absolute scorcher of a day, tipped to hit 40°C. Following instructions to the letter, we arrive via train – just a short stroll to the main gates. Gates open an hour before the first race, and while smart-casual with no tie required is the dress code (thank goodness in this heat), we're already melting. As recommended, we head straight to the spot and encounter a seasoned gentleman. Explaining we're first-time novices to the venue, he couldn't be more welcoming. Turns out he's a retired Australian farmer who proceeds to reel off names of iconic West Coast New Zealand farmers I know well – instant mates!

Then he absolutely blows my mind by mentioning we can head to the stables to see Aria. This is completely unexpected – I genuinely didn't think I'd get anywhere near the nostril I technically own part of! It's a very short stroll, and there she is. First time seeing Aria in the flesh and she is, without a doubt, the most intelligent, stunning filly I've ever laid eyes on (totally biased, obviously). She's accompanied by her impeccably dressed track rider Laura, who's more than happy to give us the full rundown on Aria and patiently answers my random horse questions.

We're joined by fellow shareholders and before I know it, I'm chatting away with new friends. Ben arrives and gives us his update on what to expect. I'm absolutely buzzing, and after days of meticulous field analysis, quietly confident Aria will place in the top five. Aria gives me what I interpret as a lovely wink and nod – we're on the same page, clearly.

Time flies and the races begin. It's fascinating observing the whole process – when horses parade, owners head to the area adjacent to the parade ring, and when the horses move onto the course, owners slip through to nab rail positions. Then the moment arrives – Aria's in the parade ring! We're out there soaking up every second. Michael mounts up and they head off to the starting gates 1000m away. We move through to the rail and share our story with the track attendant minding the gate. He's putty in my hands and kindly invites us to stand right beside him, watching the big screen directly in front of us until the 600m mark, then watching them thunder around the corner into the straight.

They're off! Aria explodes from the gates, seizing the lead. I'm riding every stride with her, urging her forward. As she approaches the 250m mark, Gin Twist challenges for the lead, but Aria rallies brilliantly to reclaim it – only to have Rubi's Choice slingshot from just behind and roll over the top of her for a strong win.

Amazing! Fantastic! Ecstatic! Aria's second! Crikey, this armchair riding business is exhausting work!

We move behind the parade ring as the horses come in. Ben and Rachel from the stable join us, equally thrilled with Aria's performance. Michael Dee comes over and gives his account of our fabulous filly's run. This is absolutely brilliant – I'm so chuffed we made the trip.

Back to the members' stand for celebratory drinks with fellow shareholders. We're so pumped we barely notice two more races slip by. Returning to the stables, Aria's been hosed down and is already heading back to Cranbourne to stand in ice. The level of care and attention these horses receive is genuinely impressive.

The day well and truly exceeds expectations. Updates keep flowing – results, how she's recovered the next day, immediate racing program. The communication is outstanding. I've watched replays from every conceivable angle multiple times, studied the sectional times, and can't help grinning like an idiot as I relive the experience.

How do I rate it? Te Akau team: 10. Communication: 10. Michael Dee: 10. Aria: 10+++ (Heaven knows how I'll cope when she actually wins!)

I'm utterly sold on Te Akau and already counting down to the next race. Massive thanks to Karyn, Ben, Laura, Rachel, and Michael for creating a truly unforgettable, once-in-a- lifetime experience.

Go the Tangerine!

PS: Five hours from Westport to Christchurch, then flying to Melbourne for a 58-second horse race? Absolutely worth every second. 

NOTE: I Am Aria made her second race day appearance on Saturday at Caulfield in the Group 2 Blue Diamond Prelude. Ridden by Craig Williams from a wide gate, she again raced with great credit, finishing third, beaten only a length - and our intrepid traveller was again present.  On 21 February all going well, she will contest the A$2 million Group 1 Blue Diamond Stakes at Caulfield - it's a safe bet, the travel plans from coast to coast are already in place.

Photo credit - I Am Aria, taken by Garry, at Caulfield on 24 January