CREDIT where it is due. The Goffs Land Rover Sale was held without a hitch, though not it would appear with the full blessing of all. Some local residents were critical of the fact that the sale was being held, given that there were Government restrictions in place in Kildare, along with two other counties.

While to the uninitiated there might have been some cause for concern, the fact that Goffs implemented the strictest of protocols should have eased these worries. Speaking from my own personal attendance at the sale, and my observations on the day, every possible care was taken to ensure the safety of all on the grounds. No stone was left unturned, and within an hour of my arrival I even had a text reminder that social distancing was to be maintained, and masks must be worn both indoors and outdoors.

Similar practices were also in place at the Curragh, and it is clear that all participants in our sport and industry are keen that we do all in our power to make sure there is no slip up during what is a worrying and stressful time. This care will no doubt extend next week to the sale at Fairyhouse, and we can hopefully look forward to a full return to the sales calendar in Ireland for the rest of the year.

While the sale report and results contained elsewhere in the paper will show declines that in normal circumstances would be a worry, such crude comparisons are unfair at this time. Everyone I spoke to at Goffs was pleased to be operating, felt that the trade was good and it was clear that, for the most part, expectations were exceeded. There are challenges ahead, of that there is no doubt, but the importance of keeping the wheel turning has never been more important.

Sad news

I was desperately saddened when I received the call yesterday morning to tell me that one of the greatest gentlemen I have ever known, and one of the best jockeys to ever grace a saddle, had died. Willie Robinson was always an iconic figure for me, and he had very few equals as a rider. I was fortunate to grow up and remember the days of Arkle and Mill House. Indeed, my nom de plume as a contributor to The Irish Field for many years was Mill House.

Next week we will publish a tribute to Willie, and we will also remember Coral Pritchard-Gordon who died this week. She was from a wonderful racing dynasty and was at the centre of many of the greatest racing occasions of the past decades.

May she and Willie rest in peace.