SOMETHING other that shamrock was delivered to President Obama in celebration of St Patrick’s Day this year when Galway-based equine photographer Martina Regan’s specially commissioned portrait of Davy Russell and last year’s Gold Cup winner Lord Windermere was given to him by Henry Healy (President Obama’s eighth cousin from Moneygall, Co Offaly).

Martina was approached to capture on camera the prominence of the thriving horse racing and breeding industry in Ireland. Shot at Jim Culloty’s yard in Churchtown, Mallow, Co Cork, the image shows the Dr Lambe-owned chaser in the perfect pose. Martina explained: “We have a massive pride in horses and horse racing in Ireland. Our bond between horses and people - whether they are professional jockeys, leisure riders or trainers - runs deep and is one which is deeply respected and valued.