Davy Russell reflects on initiatives in Irish racing and ones to watch
WITH the end of the National Hunt season, we can reflect with pride at just how high the calibre of horse in Ireland is at the moment.
The finale, the Punchestown Festival, was The Willie Mullins Show. You’d think Henry de Bromhead would carry on through with the same dominance but it was really only Honeysuckle who starred – it’s unbelievable how one trainer’s fortunes can completely turn around like that. But isn’t the filly spectacular? She was absolute dynamite when taking her tally to 12 wins from 12 races now.
In 2013, the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (ITBA) recognised that fillies needed a bit of help. They introduced the National Hunt Fillies Bonus Scheme whereby they pay out €5,000 (around £4,300) if any eligible horse wins a mares’ bumper, maiden hurdle or beginners’ steeplechase.
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You can also read this exclusive column in the 13 May issue of Horse & Hound.
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H&H showjumping editor
Jennifer is passionate at showjumping and her role as H&H’s showjumping editor has taken her around the world reporting from shows and interviewing riders, connections and those involved behind the scenes. Since joining H&H from BBC Sport in 2005, she has written on every subject across the equestrian sphere — from turnout rugs to stable management — and has interviewed gold medallists, world champions and winners galore. She also has first-hand experience of working in the equestrian industry as a riding instructor and yard manager.
