Harness Racing New Zealand has made the first invite to an Australian horse for this years Harness Jewels at Ashburton.

Salty Robyn, a two year old colt by Art Official in the Shane Tritton barn has impressed  in a short Australian career to date since being purchased out of Andrew Armour's barn late last year.

At just his second lifetime start in the Sapling Stakes at Menangle, Salty Robyn went under by a short half head to star two year old Bettermatch in a smart 1:53.6.

Next up he won in 1:53.9 before turning in an outstanding performance to win the $50,000 Rod Fitzpatrick Memorial in 1:53.9 after an early gallop saw him settle well back in the field before he just rushed past them in the straight for a breathtaking win.

The winner of $44,600 from his four lifetime starts, the colt looks like he will be well suited by the 1400 metres track at Ashburton for the Harness Jewels. 

Trainer Shane Tritton had been planning a New Zealand campaign even before he received the Harness Jewels invitation.

" It is something we were looking at because he is not paid up for any of the big stakes races here in Australia."

" He will be in New Zealand for the Sires Stakes heat at Addington on April 23rd and then hopefully onwards to the final."

" Ashburton should really suit him and the Jewels invite makes the trip very worthwhile."

" He feels like an older horse when you sit behind him and I think he will be very competitive in New Zealand," Shane said.

Getting Australian horses involved with the Harness Jewels has been on the radar for Harness Racing New Zealand for the last year or so and they must be happy to already have one confirmed runner for this years event.

$40,000 Sapling Stakes Menangle, Salty Robyn 

Salty Robyn winning at Menangle in 1:53.9

Salty Robyn winning again at Menangle 1:53.9

Harnesslink Media