APPLICATIONS for places on the much sought after Irish National Stud Breeders Course close early next month [October 4th]. The course which was first held in 1971, is widely regarded as the leading equine training programme in the world. As Education Development Manager at the Irish National Stud, it is my job to oversee the running of this course.

I grew up with ponies and greyhounds, learning to ride at a young age. In my teenage years, I started riding out for local trainer Brian Malone, who was based on the Curragh at the time. I spent weekends and holidays in the yard and went racing whenever time afforded it. It was a great opportunity to see first-hand how a racing stable operated – something that has stood to me in subsequent years. After doing my Leaving Cert, I worked at Kildangan Stud and various other studs for a number of years. I then took time out to have a family, before returning to education to study law. During those years, I always retained an interest in racing. I was involved in racehorse ownership with Frank Ennis, including a filly named Beatrix Potter. Although that horse never actually won for me, she went on to breed dual Group 1-winning sprinter Harry Angel.