DR Adrian McGoldrick’s dedication to improving jockey safety was recognised with a standing ovation at the Horse Racing Ireland Awards in Dublin on Tuesday evening.
Due to retire as Chief Medical Officer for the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Authority at the end of this month, Dr McGoldrick received the Contribution to the Industry Award from the Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed.
The Newbridge-based GP has held the position since 2007, was universally acclaimed for his efforts in improving jockeys’ safety, and has been hailed for his research into areas including athletes’ dehydration, concussion, nutrition and mental health. Dr McGoldrick served as racecourse doctor at the Curragh for over 30 years.
In his citation, HRI chief executive Brian Kavanagh made reference to the “difficult cases” Dr McGoldrick had handled with great empathy, his juggling of racing commitments with the demands of his own practice, and behind-the-scenes administrative work on behalf of RACE and other good causes.
Accepting his award, Dr McGoldrick said: “I’ve had the support of an amazing team at the Turf Club and IHRB. Jason Morris in Horse Racing Ireland, the Order of Malta, and the jockeys themselves have also been hugely helpful.”
He gave a vote of confidence to his successor, Dr Jennifer Pugh, and confirmed that he will remain involved in a consultative capacity.
One of the more high-profile cases Dr McGoldrick has managed in recent years involved Ana O’Brien, who has since made a full recovery. Her brothers Donnacha and Joseph, and their father Aidan were three
of the four nominees for the Flat Award. All three had sound claims but members of the racing media probably got it right in giving the nod to champion jockey Donnacha.
In a sensational year, Donnacha rode 111 domestic winners and won classics on Saxon Warrior, Latrobe and Forever Together. He enjoyed further Group 1 success aboard Ten Sovereigns, Fairyland and Magna Grecia.
After one of his classic wins, Donnacha was asked on Racing UK to name his greatest asset as a jockey. He memorably replied: “I’m Aidan O’Brien’s son.” Expanding on that this week, he said: “I’m under no illusions as to why I’m riding these horses but the owners are easy to ride for and there’s no pressure from them.”
Asked about his weight, he said: “I’m a bit heavier during the winter but it’s not too bad. I think I will be fine for next year.”
The Flat Achievement Award went to Curragh trainer Patrick Prendergast. He enjoyed a memorable season with Skitter Scatter, who rose through the ranks to land the Group 1 Moyglare Stud Stakes at the Curragh.
“I expected her to win her maiden but that’s all,” he said. “She kept improving and has a great attitude.” He reported that Skitter Scatter is back in light exercise after a spell at Airlie Stud and the 1000 Guineas remains her target. “She owes us nothing and what will be, will be.”
Patrick and Grainne Prendergast
THE AWARD WINNERS
Irish Racing Heroes: KATIE WALSH & NINA CARBERRY
Contribution to the Industry: DR ADRIAN McGOLDRICK
Horse of Year: ALPHA CENTAURI
National Hunt: WILLIE MULLINS
Flat: DONNACHA O’BRIEN
National Hunt Achievement: RACHAEL BLACKMORE
Flat Achievement: PATRICK PRENDERGAST
Point-To-Point: BARRY O’NEILL
Ride of the Year: DEREK O’CONNOR
Racecourse of the Year: PUNCHESTOWN
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