LAST Sunday I enjoyed my biggest win since taking out a trainer’s licence five years ago when Vics Canvas claimed the Cork Grand National at Mallow. It was rather apt that I tasted success in that particular race as my family and I have a long association with staying chasers.

My father Liam, worked for the Dreapers for many years and was the first jockey to win on the legendary Arkle. He also won many of the big staying chases over the years, including the Irish National, Thyestes, Leopardstown Chase and Sun Alliance. Unfortunately his career was cut short by a bad fall and he had retired from riding by the time I was born.