FOUR of Ireland’s 26 racecourses are in the care of female managers, though in the case of Listowel the role held by Brenda Daly is officially that of Secretary. The quartet are all looking forward to a bright 2018, while Sue Phelan in Waterford and Tramore (to give it its full name) already has a New Years’ Day meeting under her belt.

The first race of the year there was won by Chateauneuf Du Pap and ironically it was a real case of girl power. The winner is owned by Catherine Holden, trained by her daughter Ellmarie, was ridden by Rachel Blackmore and bred by Pauline Ann Cowey.