Martín Valle Shines Bright on Estrellas Day
- Turf Diario
- Jul 1
- 3 min read
With victories in the Juvenile, Juvenile Fillies, Mile, and Dirt, the young jockey delivered a dream performance, reaffirming why he is one of the leading names in Argentine racing
For Martín Valle, Saturday was undoubtedly one of the greatest days of his young career. Already a three-time winner of the Gran Premio Carlos Pellegrini (G1) at just 27, the jockey enjoyed a dream afternoon, capturing four wins in the Carreras de las Estrellas – three of them at the G1 level – during the spectacular festival at Hipódromo Argentino de Palermo.
Many things must align for such a sweep to happen. Good mounts are essential, of course, but luck and execution are equally decisive. In fact, Martana (Fortify), arguably his strongest chance beforehand, lost the Distaff (G1) to Coni Fizz (Marconi), yet Valle still came away with a formidable four-timer.
Valle had the Estrellas meeting “firmly in his sights” well before the first bell. His determination, faith, and talent combined perfectly to produce an unforgettable day. The Corrientes native was the undisputed star of Argentina’s biggest racing festival, underlining why he is one of the country’s top riders.
“Last year I didn’t have any luck at the Estrellas; I kept finding trouble in my races. But I always believed my day would come – and it arrived… in a big way!” said Valle, still brimming with emotion.
He sensed early that his book of rides was strong. “Going in, I knew all seven horses I was riding had chances. There wasn’t one that I thought couldn’t win. Luckily everything fell into place and I was able to really enjoy the day. It was special, thank God.”
The first strike came aboard Charm (Strategos) in the Juvenile Fillies (G1), as the improving filly defeated hot favorite Roshita (Gouverneur Morris). “I had a ton of faith in her. She had moved forward so much, and even though I knew it was a tough race, I was confident she was ready to win… and she did,” he smiled.
Later came success with El Éxito (Il Campione) in the Mile (G1), though he had to work to repel a strong bid from Descamisado (Fortify). “On paper he was the favorite, but I know what José’s horse is capable of. It was a tough race, but he got the job done and confirmed his quality.”
Valle also impressed with Pecadora Joy (Fortify), winner of the Estrellas Dirt, as expected. “She was in great shape, much better than last time. She lost a bit of rhythm during the race, but I waited as long as I could and when I asked her, she quickened away easily. That trip was ideal for her.”
The most notable win came aboard Drive Joy (Fortify) in the Juvenile (G1), avenging their unlucky run in the Gran Criterium (G1) at San Isidro. “It looked like the toughest because Amor de Contramano (Gouverneur Morris) had won the Montevideo so easily. Last time my horse was left last at the break after getting fractious in the gates, but still ran third beaten five lengths. He kept working well afterwards so they decided to try him on dirt, and he proved himself, beating a really good horse.”
At 27, Valle has achieved plenty, but remains grounded: “You have to keep working; never settle. The basis of success is humility, hard work, and surrounding yourself with people who lift you up, because you can’t please everyone.”
Behind each success lies dedication, sacrifice, and strong support. “I get nervous in the days before big races because you want the horses to arrive in top shape, that nothing happens at the last minute. You can win or lose, but ideally they get there ready.”
Valle thanked his inner circle for their constant backing: “My family is always there, even though I don’t see them much with work. When I can, I love spending time with them. That’s why I rarely ride at La Plata – I prefer to spend my free days with my wife and daughter, who starts kindergarten next year. I also get support from my parents in Corrientes; they understand how this life is.”
He didn’t forget those who supported him from the start: “I have to thank Firmamento, Santa Inés, Quique Martín Ferro, and my friend ‘Blancucho’ (José Cristóbal Blanco), an exceptional person. He helped me a lot early on, and when I asked for a bit of freedom, he gave it to me, let me fly. Thanks to that, today I can win important races not just for him, but for everyone who trusts me.”
On Saturday, the stars shone over Palermo. And one of them, undoubtedly, was Martín Valle.
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