We are currently in the horse racing season, so it is fitting to chat today to Kristy Martin.

Kristy is the Chief Executive Officer at Strathalbyn Racing.

Kristy is married with three young adults, whom are all now in the workforce. They have lived at Willyaroo, on the edge of Strathalbyn for over 20 years. Her husband runs a mechanical workshop from home. 

You are the Chief Executive Officer at Strathalbyn Racing. Please tell us a little more about your every day at the racing club.

Variety is the spice of life, and that is what I thrive on in this unpredictable role. Every day is different, it's an exciting environment with many different facets, the horse training side, racing, turf, machinery, business and events, never a dull moment.

Have you always been in this line of work?

No, I’ve had a colourful and enjoyable worklife, Corporate, viticulture, mining, bookkeeping, farm machinery dealership, wine industry and now horse racing. 

Preparing and running such major events for all kinds of people (and horses), from around the state and the country, must be both challenging and rewarding. How do you cope with these kinds of pressures?  

The reality of events is pure hard work, prepare for anything, the team around me is critical, in particular Sarah Milbank, Events Manager whom our relationship must be hand in hand.

High Adrenaline, the reward the smiling faces and new people to our environment. A large portion of our demographic retirees from the Fleurieu, to provide them with an exceptional day out and their genuine thanks is immeasurable.

Has Strathalbyn / Fleurieu always been home to you? If not, how did you end up here?

I grew up on the Fleurieu in Ashbourne, at the time a small farming community, in the most beautiful part of the world. 

What is it that makes you proud of the place you live and work? 

Such a beautiful part of the world, wherever you go. I work at a picturesque race course, that hasn’t lost its country charm.

The Fleurieu is such an easy sell.

On a more personal note, tell us a little about Kristy and what you love to do out of work …. (OK if you prefer not too!!!): 

Long lunch with friends, Music, Yoga, Walking my dog on Goolwa Beach. River life with my family when we can get away.

YOUR TOP TIPS for the Fleurieu Peninsula / Kangaroo Island:

Best place to....

• Grab a quick bite... Pestka’s pasty and chocolate doughnut
• Have a more serious feed…Bombora’s
• Get a cuppa…Appleseed or Hammer n Tongs
• Have a beer (or cold drink)…Commercial Hotel
• Taste some wine (or just enjoy the winery atmosphere) ..Spoilt for choice anywhere in Langhorne Creek
• Go for a dip…Goolwa, ute on sand, gold
• Explore nature…Cox’s Scrub Ashbourne

When I’m on the Fleurieu and/or KI, I…

• feel…grateful to live where I live
• stock up on…wine

Best memory of being here:

Beach with the friends back in the 80’s, then onto the Crown Hotel. 

Through sport, community and business, the relationships in every town, priceless.

Most colourful character I’ve run into: 

So many gems I’m privileged to know and have known. 

My best piece of advice for anyone heading to the region: 

Ask a local

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