How did you get into racehorse ownership?

I formed a bloodstock business almost 25 years ago and then re-formed a new, solely-owned business in 2012. Ownership goes hand-in-hand when being with horses is one of your favourite ways to spend time.

What was your best day at the races and why?

Any day one can compete in a good spirit is a great day.

To have purchased horses that excel is extremely rewarding. Isaac Wonder’s win was a superb day out at Killarney races recently (Irish Stallion Farms EBF Nursery Handicap last week) as was Hula Angel’s Irish 1000 Guineas win in 1999 and Architecture’s second placings last year, both in the Oaks and Irish Oaks.

What is the biggest drawback about being a racehorse owner?

There is no drawback. I couldn’t conjure one which would negate the fulfilling and rewarding benefits of owning a racehorse.

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

I would resist singling out one racecourse, given that all racecourses now acknowledge that owners appreciate a level of welcome which exceeds being forgotten.

I’m sure they do their best with limited resources. Recently, some racecourses have begun to provide welcome bites and beverages – hugely appreciated. Food snobbery goes out the window after a rush to the races!

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

I love both – for me, it’s like asking whether I prefer summer or winter.

What qualities do you look for in a trainer?

It is when I sign the purchase docket that I cannot help thinking about which trainer would suit that horse best – the other way round works too. At the end of the day, trust and integrity are a prerequisite.

I am very glad to have a horse with John Oxx currently – it is a great pleasure. I have had positive experiences and some success with other trainers too.

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

A clean spot to powder one’s nose in the smaller tracks would be great!

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

It is up to oneself to make one’s own reparations – but perhaps a proper coffee and a comfortable spot to chat with the trainer when not making it to the elusive winning spot would be great.

What significance do your colours hold?

I love them! Catriona Oxx helped me select them.

I am great at helping others choose colours from the limited templates provided for, but without her help I wouldn’t have got my own right.

When buying a horse, what do you look for?

Some call it ‘balance’ – I like to think I can see what I describe as a good ‘centre of gravity’.

What horses do you currently have in training?

Just the one at the moment – Isaac Wonder.

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

I like to keep a young National Hunt horse or two to look forward to when I can and I hope to buy a flat yearling this year to have in training – hopefully with the Oxx team. I expect to have an order or two also.

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

Everyone enjoys a level playing field. It is very competitive but if you have a winner in ireland, it means you have a very good horse. Anyone can compete - no matter how modest the budget. For instance, I bought Architecture for less than €5,000 as a foal and bought my latest two-year-old winner as a yearling for €10,000.

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

Go for it!

Patricia Burke was in conversation with Olivia Hamilton.