October
AprilNational joy
I have just arrived back in Ireland after attending the Grand National at Aintree.
I note from the Herald Sun website that it continues to wage its campaign against jumping racing by describing the National with words such as "carnage".
To the contrary, the most famous race in the world delivered all the skill and horsemanship of A. P. McCoy as he won the National at his 15th attempt.
Admission to Aintree was sold out for the National and the crowds for the three days were huge. The racing and jumping was the best I have seen.
Having also just attended the Irish National at Fairyhouse and the Gold Cup at Cheltenham it continues to amaze me how the administrators of Victorian racing pander to the whims of a minority. What an absolute pleasure to attend these meetings without being harassed by idiots.
Roll on Punchestown as Denman will be racing. Unfortunately Ruby Walsh will not be riding there.
What a joy winter racing in Melbourne will be with a maiden at Moe the highlight.
Ballybrittas, County Laois