RACING in Ireland is being presented with a golden opportunity. This follows the news that RTÉ is to provide extensive coverage of racing in this period when there is a dearth of live sport. Kudos to both the national television channel and Horse Racing Ireland for making this happen.

Lack of access to Irish racing on a terrestrial channel, apart from the big festivals and classic days, has put the sport at a competitive disadvantage when compared with the extensive coverage given to the likes of rugby, soccer and GAA. Every sport wants more exposure and RTÉ cannot accommodate everyone, so this opportunity must be grasped with both hands.