First job in the Thoroughbred industry?
With Helen Markham a few miles from home in Grangecon, County Wicklow. I was only 14, but learned many lessons about horses and humans over the course of four years.
Biggest influence on your career?
That would be my father. He has been my sounding board for advice on Thoroughbreds and my life in the industry.
Favourite racehorse of all time, and why?
Kauto Star. He was the horse that gave me that warm, fuzzy feeling about this as a sport.
Who will be champion first-season sire in 2023?
I will go with Blue Point. He appears to have covered sufficient mares, and sufficient quality mares, to do it and they seem to have found themselves in good hands. The ones that I encountered had a toughness to them.
Greatest race in the world?
The Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
If you could be someone else in the industry for a day, who would it be, and why?
Probably one of my longest friends Jerry Horan. Because you would be guaranteed to have a story to tell after the day!
Emerging talent in the industry (human)?
There are too many to name. It is a fantastic time for young people who are making their mark in all facets of the industry. Some of them are not seen at the races or at the sales; they are in the stables or on the studs. I work with some of them at Baroda Stud.
Name a horse TDN should have made a Rising Star, and didn't?
Bayside Boy. He also embarks on his stud career at Ballylinch Stud in 2023.
Under-the-radar stallion?
I think that Due Diligence punches above his weight and has his best crop of 2-year-olds to represent him next year.
Friday night treat?
A pint of Guinness.
Guilty pleasure outside racing?
Going to a rugby match or playing 18 holes.
Race I wish I'd been there for?
I have had some brilliant days racing with colleagues and friends but a recent one was when Imaginarium, who I bred, won a Curragh maiden in October.
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