How did you get into racehorse ownership?
Bought a June filly foal in 2007 called Sophie Germain, who is actually Indian Ridge’s last foal. She has a beautiful pedigree and we decided to breed from her. We’d always sold on her progeny but couldn’t sell Creggs Pipes so we decided to form a family syndicate and race her.
What was your best day at the races and why?
My dad’s always telling me about his favourite days’ racing following The Wren at Limerick races back in the 1970s. It’s also nice to have a day out at Tipperary and then head over the road to the Bit and Bridle Bar afterwards, followed by a visit to the Royal Hotel.
Our family also had a remarkable day at the Cheltenham Festival in 2012 when my cousin P.D. Collins rode Count Salazar in the Foxhunter Chase.
What is the biggest drawback about being a racehorse owner?
There is a dearth of independent expert advice available and sometimes it can be difficult to extract sound advice from it all.
In your experience, which racecourse treats owners the best and why?
We’ve only been to three as owners but Leopardstown, the day Creggs Pipes won, was great with a brilliant atmosphere. The live music afterwards drew in a large, young crowd, and you’d like to think they will be the racegoers of the future.
Flat or jump racing, which do you prefer and why?
Flat because one has more control of the outcome if the breeding, conformation and preparation are in order.
What qualities do you look for in a trainer?
Honesty, good communication skills, and someone who puts in 100% effort all the time. Andrew Slattery ticks all those boxes.
What improvements could be made to racing in Ireland?
The authorities could consider incentivising production of top pedigrees so it’s not a preserve of the same few breeders.
What improvements would you like to see racecourses in Ireland do for owners?
It would be appreciated if racecourses would show a greater awareness of how important a stakeholder racehorse owners are in the industry. They should remember that small gestures go a long way.
How do you feel owners are treated at the races when not having a winner?
No complaints there. Racing is all about winning so it’s acceptable that the winner takes all.
What significance do your colours hold?
They were a random choice made in a rush!
When buying a horse, what do you look for?
Pedigree, conformation are the first things we look for, and we have to get value for money. And Andrew Slattery’s advice is also sought after.
What horses do you currently have in training?
Just Creggs Pipes.
Have you any horses to look forward to?
Not yet, but hopefully we’ll have something in the pipeline soon.
What’s next on the agenda for Creggs Pipes?
She is due to run at the Curragh today.
What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a racehorse owner?
Buy the best horse that you can afford. Choose your trainer with care. Listen to all the advice you can, and then do your own thing!
AIRO secured free admission on over 90 racedays in 2015 for registered owners with a horse in training.
Ballinrobe Monday, July 20th
Ballinrobe Tuesday, July 21st
Down Royal Friday, July 24th
Wexford Friday, July 24th
Wexford Saturday, July 25th
Cork Monday, August 3rd
Cork Tuesday, August 4th
Mary Hayes was in conversation with Joe Finegan