'I've been to Super Bowls and all major sports events but jump racing beats all'

The charismatic publican on the turn of events that led him to own racehorses

Aidan 'Red' Shiels (left) after Benefficient landed the 2013 Jewson Novices' Chase for Bryan Cooper and Tony MartinCredit: Patrick McCann

Cheltenham Festival-winning owners don't come more passionate than Aidan 'Red' Shiels, a New York-based publican originally from County Westmeath. Mark Boylan caught up with the man whose celebrations following Heartbreak City's second in the 2016 Melbourne Cup made headlines around the world.

I had an interest in racing before coming out to the US, but the first meeting I ever attended was Cheltenham.

I've gone to every big sporting event over here. Super Bowls, hockey finals, basketball finals – you name it, I've been there – but there's nothing to beat a day at National Hunt racing.

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Published on 7 June 2020inSeries

Last updated 16:39, 18 June 2020

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