'Attracting families will help to keep the sport alive and well'

Loughrea was a stand-alone meeting on Sunday and the day was a great success with a lot of talent on show, mostly fresh, although in the case of a real favourite of mine, Edwulf, long-established.

The local committee can be pleased with a large attendance, the best I've seen at the venue in recent years. They put a lot of effort into extracurricular activities, entertainment for the kids, hospitality, dog shows and the like, which helped to provide a lively atmosphere.

I've said it many times in previous seasons, but it's so important that it's worth repeating at the outset of the new campaign. Committees should do their best to put in extra work to make the point-to-point a day to look forward to in the life of the local community.