HALFWAY through a Maths degree I walked out from the University of Limerick library and drove home to tell my parents this wasn’t for me. I was going to be a jockey, live my childhood dream!

I never regretted that decision once. Not giving it a go would have been the regret. I have loved being a jockey. It was never easy but always interesting and often great fun. Riding good horses and winning big races was thrilling, satisfying even just to think about as I write.

Those feelings make giving blood, sweat and tears worthwhile. In fact I estimate I’ve sweat about two tonnes and cried a bit more than I should admit. However, it is now time for me to move on, that childhood dream fulfilled.

My back has been causing me problems for a few years. Despite continuous efforts, treatments and exercises it can’t hack the job, I finally made up my mind on a recent holiday where I spent two weeks eating painkillers and sleeping tablets. Frankly I don’t ride the way I used to. I could compete with the best but that isn’t really the case anymore.

People will surmise my decision was influenced by the injuries to my brother Robbie and our cousin J.T., but this was inevitable and on my mind for some time. That said it will give our family some peace of mind.

While contemplating retirement I’ve also been looking ahead and am going to train racehorses. Not an easy game either but, just like being a jockey, I’d love to give it a shot. I’ve had one or two horses on the go at any time over the last few years to get some experience and will continue to buy and sell before hopefully getting a few clients to keep horses with me.

I’ve kept an eye open in every yard and spent a lot of time studying fitness and physiology. A few recent purchases from Goffs and Tattersalls should help me on my way and hopefully owners will consider me in the future. The television work is another aspect I enjoy and will continue to work at.

A sincere thank you to anyone who has helped me in my career. Special thanks to Dad, the reason we got into the game and always my most loyal supporter. I reckon he was sneakily delighted that day I left college but didn’t dare tell Mam.

My first outside yards were those of Tim Doyle and John Murphy who were very generous. I also enjoyed jobs with Michael Hourigan and Edward O’Grady before more recently the ‘Shark’ Hanlon and the Mee family provided most of my rides.

EasyFix have been my sponsors for some time now and finally a big shout to my wife Rhona who has been great company and support to me as a jockey and I’m sure will be even more in the future. She loves a bit of yard work.

My weigh room ‘buds’ have provided endless entertainment but what I will miss most is the good horses - Newmill, Hi Cloy, Beef Or Salmon, Catch Me, The Listener, Tranquil Sea, Sizing Europe, Bluesea Cracker and Hidden Cyclone are names that spring to mind but there are plenty others I will cherish having sat on.

To the horses and the people, thanks a mill!