'I had shares in lots of horses with little success - then came Royal Ascot'

Many in the racing world will remember the late Kevin Mercer, who with his wife Sue founded Usk Valley Stud. I met Kevin 40 years ago at Royal Porthcawl Golf Club when we were both members. He was passionate about racing, great company and a good friend.

My first experience of shared ownership was with Kevin, when as a young man I had a share in a few greyhounds with him. We had a lot of fun and, as was Kevin's way, win or lose we seemed to party.

The first share I had in a horse was also with Kevin – a gelding called Tresor Secret. He failed to win a race for us, but it ignited a passion which has grown ever since.