YOU might find it harder than usual to catch me on Monday, as I will most certainly be taking some time to relax, listening to some of the advice that I am better at giving through the health column than doing for myself.

Tonight I have the honour to once again act as master of ceremonies at the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association annual awards, and you can watch this streamed live from 10pm. Go to itba.ie and you will find the link. This is one of the best nights of the year for me, and there are some special moments and people to be celebrated. It is a must-see event and will have some special moments.

Last Saturday I presented some of the hundreds of awards given to our immensely talented young show jumping riders at the SJAI Pony Awards in Mullingar. What an inspiring occasion, and well done to all the riders who are a credit to their discipline.

With a haul of European medals as a highlight of the year, the only note of discord was levelled at our national broadcaster who once again failed to acknowledge these team and individual achievements.

Sunday night was my turn to be in the spotlight, so to speak, as I was interviewed for the laudable HAY movement, ‘How are Ya’, which is gathering more and more momentum. From the feedback I received the message I had to give resonated with many, and I am pleased to say that the interview with Shane McCarthy is available to hear.

Find The Grassroots Gazette online and on most of the social media platforms, and you will see the link.

Wednesday came and I was in Enniskillen, at the great educational establishment that is CAFRE, where I chaired a panel discussion about careers. From young graduates of the college’s programme, to some of the most established figures in equestrianism, I was again inspired, educated and reinvigorated to hear their stories of career developments and opportunities.

Not sure how I managed to write all of this week’s pages, but on Thursday it was a visit to Gowran Park for the Goffs Thyestes Chase. My heart sank when I saw the length of the queue to get to the racecourse, but it was quickly lifted to know that this was a problem more racecourses would like to have. The crowds were enormous, happy, and we got to enjoy some splendid sport.

When I read the stream of negativity that populates social media now as a norm, I will just sit back, reflect on the past week, and smile that we have a great sport, industry and community of people.