Curragh to consider options as Grassick calls for innovative leasing model

Michael Grassick, chief executive of the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association, has called for an innovative system that would see the raft of idle yards on the Curragh centrally leased and then sublet.

The former handler expressed frustration that his proposal has not gained traction, but Derek McGrath – his equivalent at the Curragh Racecourse Ltd – insists that the concept will be considered in future plans, along with the possibility of a new centralised start-up facility for aspiring trainers.

Both men were responding to a column in Thursday's Racing Post that advocated a model similar to the communal backside barns that are a critical feature at many American tracks.