There was little hype surrounding Narrogin’s meeting last Saturday, but for young trainer Indianna Weinert, the day will mark an important milestone.
In the training caper for just three months, the 24-year-old couldn’t wipe the smile off her face after Carlin Road gave her the first win of her career.
In a thrilling conclusion to the Tabtouch Stream Racing Live Maiden Handicap (1100m), Carlin Road, ridden by Natasha Faithfull, got up in the last stride and won by a half-head.
Weinert described the victory as ‘amazing’ and has been overwhelmed by the support and congratulatory messages from friends and contemporaries.
“The support has been incredible,” Weinert told The Races WA.
“My phone was constantly ringing on Saturday.
“It was an amazing experience, one that I can’t describe.
“I was jumping up and down getting excited when they were in the straight.
“It’s something I’m never going to forget.
“I’ve strapped winners before, but when it’s your own horse it’s ten times heightened.”
From an eventing background, Weinert was certain she wanted to be involved in the racing industry after working with leading Albany trainer, Roy Rogers.
She soon fell in love with the thrill of riding thoroughbreds and moved to Serpentine to commence an apprenticeship under the guidance of David Harrison.
She came close to making her debut in the saddle after riding in roughly 70 trials, but that racing dream was cut short when weight got the better of her.
Weinert says the leap from apprentice jockey to trainer was fast-tracked after sage advice and direction from a host of leading trainers.
“Roy Rogers was amazing and taught me a lot,” Weinert said.
“David (Harrison) was also very good to me.
“I rode work for Dan (Morton) and even now when I see him at the track, he is very helpful.
“And the Dupre’s (George & Lyndall) are like a second family to me.
“There’s been a lot of support from many people.”
IWeinert feels fortunate to have claimed her first win at just her seventh start.
Bought from an online sale, she has turned Carlin Road’s form around.
Before Narrogin, the Lucky Street three-year-old ran a couple of thirds at Northam and Belmont.
One of those placings was behind Darren McAuliffe’s talented Cold Shizzle, a midweek winner at Ascot and Belmont.
Hungry for further success, Weinert is keen to expose more runners from her stable in upcoming weeks.
“Carlin Road has thrived in a new environment and is enjoying the beach work,” Weinert said.
“I also have a two-year-old that is set to trial next week and that’s pretty exciting.
“I feel lucky to have won my first race so soon because I know it’s not easy to do.”