How did you get into racehorse ownership?

My father gave me a filly (La Noire) who became the foundation mare of Athdara Stud my home.

(La Noire ran only four times, being placed twice and had to be prematurely retired. However, it was as a broodmare that she really came into her own and soon produced a cracker in the shape of future Champion Hurdle winner, Jezki.)

McGrath’s horses’ names start with a J – a throwback to jet black coming from the name of La Noire (the black).

What was your best day at the races and why?

Jetson beating Quevega in the Ladbrokes World Hurdle, Punchestown 2014.

Firstly because it was so unexpected and secondly because Jetson was such a pet and l was happy for him.

In your experience, which racecourse treats owners the best and why?

They are all beginning to get their act together. I was however, impressed by the new set up in Leopardstown.

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

I am totally biased, jumps for me. So many more variables and therefore more exciting.

What is the biggest drawback about being a racehorse owner?

Injuries. They are such frail animals.

What qualities do you look for in a

trainer?

Empathy towards the horse is primary. The horse comes first and if treated well will produce longevity. Honesty too, I believe a good trainer should tell you if you have a ‘no hoper’.

What improvements would you like to see racecourses in Ireland do for owners?

As I stated before, the improvements to many owner and trainer lounges is underway.

Hopefully, they will all follow suit. It would also be beneficial to have a reduced rate on a table meal for 10 when you have to entertain a few extra.

How do you feel owners are treated when not having a winner?

The invisible man springs to mind.

What significance do your colours hold?

None really. I picked them because they are easily seen from afar. When I chose them 17 years ago they were a little outrageous, but a couple of years ago they were quite the fashion.

When buying a horse, what do you look for?

I am quite fortunate. I ‘grow my own’.

What horses do you currently have in training?

Jett and Jelan. Jetz and Jetez will be joining them in Jessica Harrington’s this summer.

What’s next on the agenda for your horse?

Jett will go to Fairyhouse at Easter. We are just waiting for good ground for Jelan.

Have you any horses to look forward to? (i.e. young/unbroken horses)

The two newcomers above for this year and then a filly Jelara next year.

What would help to make lrish racing more competitive for the smaller owner/trainer?

lf there was a way to reduce the cost to the small trainer then this could be passed on to the owner. Maybe a reduced licence fee?

What advice to someone thinking of becoming a racehorse owner?

Remember it costs the same to train a bad one as a good one with all the extra work involved to try and improve them, so don’t be misled by a ‘deal’.

Gerry McGrath was in conversation with Olivia Hamilton