Getting racing back on track!

Sir, – I think your article ‘The road to oblivion’ [The Irish Field, September 1st, page A3] was spot on. You really hit the nail on the head.

Unfortunately, the hierarchy will not listen to us who are at the coalface of the industry and endeavouring to make a living from bloodstock. We are fully aware of the urgent action that is needed to save our wonderful industry and its worldwide reputation.

The ‘head in the sand’ approach has gone on far too long! The sport needs to adapt to a changing society and to encourage people to remain in the industry and attract new participants at every level. This can only be done by the main players in the racing world working together and listening to the lower ranks who are the backbone of the industry.

Would you consider providing an opportunity for stakeholders at all levels of the industry to air their ideas on how to prevent oblivion?

I would suggest this could be done through The Irish Field by having a regular column setting out constructive ideas on how to bring our sport into the 21st century and, in turn, making it more enjoyable and sustainable. – Yours etc.,

JIM BROWNE,

Kilnamoragh Stud,

Donadea,

Naas,

Co Kildare.

Leo Powell writes: Many thanks for this suggestion Jim. The Irish Field encourages reader interaction and would be delighted to hear from readers who have any views or suggestions on this issue. I have, on many occasions, written on the matter and asked for responses from the public. Many probably feel that this is an issue for someone else. However, we all, as participants or fans, have a responsibility to do what we can to introduce new blood to the business. I would encourage readers to write to me, either privately or for publication.

leopowell@theirishfield.ie

Letters to the Editor should be addressed to The Editor, The Irish Field, Irish Farm Centre, Bluebell, Dublin 12. Name, address and telephone number must be included for verification. Letters are published at the Editor’s discretion and the Editor reserves the right to edit letters within reason.