IRTA election

TRACEY Collins, Gordon Elliott and Eugene O’Sullivan have been elected to the council of the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association council.

They replace Dermot Weld, Jessica Harrington and Eoin Griffin, who retire by rotation.

New season

THE new horse and pony racing season kicks off with the traditional Christmas Southern Region meeting on Ballyheigue strand, Co Kerry.

To mark the organisation’s Golden Jubilee year, the fixture has been extended to a two-day card on Saturday and Sunday, December 29th-30th.

Racing starts at 1.30pm each day. Entries close tomorrow (Sunday) at 6pm. Text 087 9759500, fax 021 4775365 or email francestyner@hotmail.com

Laurina waits

LAURINA was withdrawn from today’s International Hurdle at Cheltenham due to fears over ground conditions.

Trainer Willie Mullins is waiting for softer ground to unleash his Champion Hurdle contender, who has not been seen since easily winning a Grade 1 mares’ novice hurdle at Fairyhouse in April.

Kempton or Leopardstown at Christmas, or the Relkeel Hurdle at Cheltenham on New Year’s Day, are possible options for the mare.