BEST of luck to all taking part in the Corinthian Challenge at the Curragh next Friday night, but you’ll forgive us if we cheer a bit louder for our own advertising and marketing executive Paul Callaghan.

A former professional jump jockey, Paul has been out of the saddle for 14 years and has been training hard to get in shape for the 12-furlong race in aid of Irish Injured Jockeys.

“On days when I’m not riding out, I run between 5km and 10km,” he told us. “That’s followed by a gym session in the afternoon. On days when I ride out, it’s either a run or gym session after work.”

Dublin Marathon

Paul, who you may recognise as a Racing TV presenter, has completed the Dublin Marathon for the past three years, so he was not exactly out of shape, but “since April it’s been a lot more cardio, lifting a lot lighter weights, and in turn taking less protein”. He has lost 21lb in the process.

Among those cheering him on next Friday will be his wife Eimear, and children Paudie, Mairead and Caoimhe. Mother-in-law Geraldine gets special thanks for filling in for Paul when he’s training, along with Carrickmacross gym owner Patrick Duffy, Hot Yoga & Recovery Carrickmacross, Carrick-Emmets GAA, and also trainer Noel Meade and his team. Paul added: “They have been very welcoming - it’s been a privilege to be back riding out.”

Web: corinthianchallenge.com