IT was Raheenmore Stud owner Richard Woodroofe who once said, when describing his Wicklow catchment area: “If you go a couple of miles east, you’re in the Irish Sea - there’s not many mares out there!”

Crossing westwards to the Banner County brings you to Kilkee on the edge of the Wild Atlantic Way. This west Clare hinterland has produced some of the best mares, performers and renowned horsemen, including Stephen Russell, who delves into great names of the past and shares his frank views on the future.