Sir, - I had a runner at Navan last Saturday and, through The Irish Field, I would like to share my experience with readers.

Our horse was making its debut so, once he was declared, I thought it best to double-check the colours and make sure our trainer had them. I discovered I’d made some mix up in registering our colours and given the trainer the wrong cap colour. The trainer’s racing secretary was a joy to deal with. She got on to Horse Racing Ireland immediately and within an hour it was all sorted - new cap ordered and in place for the race.

On Saturday the minute we arrived at the racecourse car park the hospitality was evident. Very courteous staff in the car park and the same when our owners’ badges were scenned. We were directed to the Owners and Trainers Restaurant above the weigh room for a very nice complimentary lunch. Again, the staff were excellent there.

One person in particular I’d like to compliment is Eddie Moran, the Owner Liaison officer.

Eddie made us very welcome. He was cognisant of our four-hour-plus drive to get there. All through the afternoon he could not do enough to make sure we were looked after.

While our own horse was, as expected very green on his first day at school, there was great joy in taking part again after a long absence since I was last involved.

I had the joy of seeing another owner-breeder, with whom I am friendly, have a winner. They invited me to join them for a drink in the winner’s connection room.

Again, the hospitality was first class. The young man in charge of the facility was savouring the joy of seeing such happy winners. I told him I had a runner in the last and, as I entered the parade ring, up he popped to wish me well.

Well done to all HRI and at Navan for making it such a good experience for owners. While it may take me a while yet to get to the winner’s enclosure I look forward to further days out. Yours etc.,

KIERAN COUGHLAN

Cork