Group 1 racing trainer Paul Jenkins excited for the future with I Am Artie

Multiple Group 1 winning trainer Paul Jenkins hasn’t minced his words when declaring I Am Artie as possibly the best horse he’s ever had ahead of his next challenge at Eagle Farm on Saturday.

James Orman aboard I Am Artie for trainer Paul Jenkins. Picture: Racing Queensland.

Sunshine Coast trainer Paul Jenkins says he’s forever grateful to stalwart trainer Alan Jones who convinced the owners to hand over their star runner when he was finishing up in the racing industry.

Five-year-old gelding I Am Artie started his career with Caloundra and legendary New Zealand trainer Jones before changing hands and having a year off following his sixth to Melbourne Cup winner Knight’s Choice in a 1600 metre benchmark race in 2023.

“I’ve known Alan since I was a kid, he’s someone I’ve always looked up to and have a lot of respect for,” Jenkins said.

“He’s been a very successful trainer over the years but he’s getting on now and it’s become a bit of a job for him I think so he’s winding down.

“I was very fortunate to be handballed him and a few others because he was a ready-made horse.”

Caloundra racing trainer, Paul Jenkins. Photo: Patrick Woods.

The son of Artie Schiller recorded one win from six starts under Jones but since changing stables Jenkins has the sprinter flying with six wins and a second from seven starts.

“Alan said he had a lot of time for him and from the minute we started working him out he showed us he’s got the talent,” Jenkins said.

“He doesn’t seem to have any holes in him at all, he’s a push button to ride, easy to train, a natural athlete and you can do a lot with him.

“He might just be the best I’ve ever had and I’ve had a couple of good ones.”

Jenkins has recorded three Group 1 wins in his career winning the Doomben Cup with King Keitel in 2001 before later claiming the Auckland Cup and Zabeel Classic with Bazelle in 2005.

James Orman aboard I Am Artie for trainer Paul Jenkins. Picture: Racing Queensland.

I Am Artie will run in the Tails Stakes (1500m) at Eagle Farm on Saturday after Jenkins put forward a late nomination.

“If it had been over 1400m I’d have probably nominated him in the first place but I think it’s not an overly strong field so he’s worth a throw at the stumps,” Jenkins said.

“Win, lose or draw he’ll head to the paddock for six weeks after Saturday.

“That gives me time to have him back for the Autumn and hopefully he’ll have enough points to get into a decent race or two.”