In part one Gary talks of the job offer which brought him to Sydney. He was invited to train privately for a high profile owner who pulled out of the arrangement three months later.  

He confesses he was ready to go back to the bush when a fellow trainer helped him out of a tight spot.

Gary talks of early days at Orange and the defining moment when he knew he wanted to train horses.

The trainer talks of the undying support of his parents Morveen and Joe.  Morveen had a promising career as an entertainer in her teen years but gave it all up to marry Joe Portelli. Gary’s father is a jack of all trades who’s been a huge asset to the stable for many years.

Gary remembers his very first winner with a horse whose career began in Russia.

He talks of his first city winner. Mick Dittman was very keen to ride the horse.

Gary’s appraisal of the horses who helped launch his career was interrupted by his pet whippet who got caught in a fence during the interview. You’ll hear the drama unfold.

The trainer takes us through his wonderful ride with horses like Forest Express, Before Too Long, and Group 1 winners Rena’s Lady, Gold Trail and Rebel Dane. He elaborates on a memorable trip to Royal Ascot with Gold Trail.