JIM Bolger moves around the parade ring in Punchestown as comfortably as if he were at the Curragh, Leopardstown, Epsom and Newmarket. A word with Arthur Moore, another with Noel Meade. There is an extended chat with Paul Kimmage, who interviewed him first almost 20 years ago.

We find a corner of the little hospitality room tucked away to the side of the pre-parade ring. He has a tea but turns down the offer of some confectionery. You don’t maintain the slim build and constitution of a 53-year-old when you are 20 years older without a bit of discipline.