Owner of the Month – October – Martie van Wyk
Some people stumble upon racing by chance, and others are born into it. This month, the Racehorse Owners Association is proud to present Martie van Wyk as our Owner of the Month as we highlight Teo Torriatte’s win in the Allez France Stakes (NB) earlier this month, a win that they will never forget.
Martie was introduced to racing by her life partner, affectionately referred to as Mike, who prefers to remain behind the scenes. Mike grew up surrounded by the sounds and stories of the sport, learning from his father, and later owning horses with trainers Bart Rice and the late Barend Botes. When he met Martie 30 years ago, he shared with her his lifelong love of racing and before long, Martie found herself swept up in its thrill. What began as placing a few small bets for fun soon became something much deeper.
The couple’s story is one of hard work and gratitude. Coming from humble beginnings, they credit their success to determination, long hours, and unwavering faith. Today, they own the Rivers Edge Pub & Grill, and other ventures described as a blessing and a second chance in life. “God has truly been with us throughout this journey,” Martie says with heartfelt sincerity.
Their path in racing hasn’t always been easy. The wins were few at first, but their passion never wavered, and they wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. She fondly jokes that Mike lets her attend the sales but reminds her to “stay calm and watch her fingers when bidding.” One of the first horses they were part of was Rolling Thunder who was unfortunately injured after a few runs. Her next opportunity allowed her to purchase 2 horses, the first, Fast and Rocking, trained by Devin Little, gave them a win and was sent to stud after a knee chip injury. Two fillies were produced from this mare but sadly with no luck in racing. The second horse was Rivers Edge trained by Stanley Ferreira who provided them with a win and 2 places before succumbing to an unexpected illness. Another horse they owned, a filly named Party Life also raced but with no success, this however, never stopped them from pursuing their passion.
The decision was taken to make a fresh start and so, the unmissable “Disco” racing silks came to life. They currently own horses with M J Odendal in KwaZulu-Natal, who nicknamed her “Marvelous Martie”, in a few horses, 50% share in Bell Fontain, 66.67% share in One Irish River and 50% share in Mystique Rouge, all of whom brought them numerous wins and places. On the Highveld, she has horses trained by Chris Jonker and 100% shares in Spirit In The Wind and Mocha Macaroon, who unfortunately no longer races due to injury, but both fillies have given them wins and places. Teo Torriatte, now trained by Corrie Lensley, continues to thrive in her racing career and Erico Verdonese conditions a filly named Vyfster, recently purchased and is still in training.
Their family shares in the excitement, often joining them at the racecourse. She also enjoys the friendships racing brings, the shared moments, and the sense of belonging that make it so special. When asked what she believes the sport needs to reach greater heights, Martie’s answer is simple: “An increase in stakes for the smaller races. Racing is an expensive game, and that would really help the smaller trainers keep their dreams alive.”
One of Martie’s most treasured memories came earlier this month, when Teo Torriatte won the Allez France Stakes (NB) which was a victory that still brings tears to her eyes. “It was euphoric,” she recalls. “As I said in my interview, I nearly had a heart attack, I screamed so loud I lost my voice for two days! I was crying and sweating so much it looked like I’d done the ice bucket challenge!”, but what made the win even more meaningful was the story behind it, Martie purchased Teo Torriatte as a surprise birthday present for Mike. “To see her do so well, it was the best kind of surprise,” she says with pride. She is quick to thank Corrie and Emmie Lensley and the team, as well as Anthony Moffatt, for their dedication and belief in the horse.
Martie also speaks fondly of the Racehorse Owners Association, describing the team as “always so helpful and supportive,” something that means a lot to owners like her.
The couple live by their personal motto, “Payback Time.” It’s not about revenge or competition, to them it’s about faith, integrity, and kindness. “What you sow is what you reap,” Martie explains. “When you do good, it always comes back to you somehow. People may judge you when you’re at your lowest, but if you have heart, you’ll always come back with a bang. And remember, it costs nothing to be kind.”
As Martie reflects on her racing journey, she’s filled with gratitude for the people she’s met along the way. “Everyone at the Vaal, Turffontein, and in KwaZulu-Natal have become like family. Their support means the world to us.” She also thanks their past trainers, Stanley and Barend who she misses dearly.
Martie’s joy and enthusiasm is palpable, lighting up the racecourse wherever she goes. We thank Martie for sharing her heart and her story with us, and for reminding us all that in racing, as in life, passion and perseverance always pay off. Here’s to Martie and Mike, may their journey continue to be blessed with many more thrilling moments and winners this season.
