How did you get into racehorse ownership?

Like many other racing enthusiasts, I have owned various anatomical parts of several (mostly slow!) horses over the years, predominantly in the National Hunt sphere.

The syndicate route is a low-cost entry option into a fantastic (if expensive) sport, and my current involvement (with the Annus Mirabilis Syndicate), which involves the leasing of half-a-dozen flat and National Hunt horses from Aidan and Annemarie O’Brien, is certainly the most enjoyable to date.

What was your best day at the races and why?

The Annus Mirabilis Syndicate was formed at the end of 2015, and we have been very fortunate to hit the ground running, with Stone Mountain getting his head in front in a Dundalk 10-furlong, three-year-old handicap in early February.

The syndicate is 15-strong and many were present on the night to celebrate our first winner together.

What is the biggest drawback about being a racehorse owner?

Choosing the colours!! No, obviously financial considerations are a significant barrier to entry for ordinary mortals in this particular sport, and even for those with less financial constraints, the expected return on investment is pitifully low.

Love of the sport therefore has to dominate all considerations for any would-be owner at both ends of the financial spectrum.

Flat or jump racing, which do you prefer and why?

I have loved both codes since childhood, but National Hunt offers a special and enduring bond between the racehorse and the supporter, while the annual pilgrimage to Prestbury Park is a celestial experience without parallel in the flat game.

What qualities to you look for in a trainer?

Capability, commitment, honesty, communicative, good humour and humility. We have found all of these qualities in droves with Aidan, Annemarie and family.

What significance do your colours hold?

Evidently we were the very first to choose them!!

How did your syndicate get its name?

A combination of my Christian Brothers’ education (!) and some tongue-in-cheek anticipation of a successful year ahead!

What horses do you currently have in training?

We have six horses in training with Aidan O’Brien (assisted by Joseph). Five of these are all-weather types who have been keeping themselves (and the syndicate) warm on the Dundalk circuit over the winter months, while the sixth made his debut in a Punchestown point-to-point some weeks back.

The flexibility of our leasing arrangement with the O’Briens will allow for rotation of horses in and out of syndicate as the year progresses, in order that members can enjoy their colours being sported at as many racedays as possible.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a racehorse owner?

Don’t tell the wife!

Donal O’Mahony was in conversation with Olivia Hamilton.

The Association of Irish Racehorse Owners (AIRO) have secured agreement with the Association of Irish Racecourses for free admission to 107 race meetings in 2016 for owners who currently have a horse in training.

This is an increase of almost 20 on the number of meetings in 2015 and AIRO wishes to express its appreciation to racecourses.

Details of the meetings are posted on www.irishracehorseowners.com and will also be listed in the new AIRO magazine which will be sent to all members.