No white flag from Michael Hourigan who harbours dreams of finding another star

Veteran trainer Michael Hourigan believes the lasting damage of the coronavirus pandemic could be worse than any recession he has struggled through.

The legendary trainer, 72, still has a burning desire to find the next Beef Or Salmon, Dorans Pride or Hi Cloy before he calls time on his career, but admits he would not like to be starting out again.

Hourigan said: “It is a world war without any planes or bombs. I wouldn't like to be starting out now. I would say there are very tough times ahead. If you are a trainer with a young family you are going to have to have a good think about what you are going to do next. You'd be very worried. Nothing is going to be easy. This is worse than any recession.”