JP McManus: horses before business for jump racing's greatest benefactor

JP McManus's remarkable transition from bookmaker and gambler to billionaire international businessman has enabled him to become the most prolific jumps owner in racing history, but for Aidan O'Brien a natural affinity for horses is the first thing to come to mind when reflecting on the personality of the man for whom he trained the mighty Istabraq.

The three-time Champion Hurdle winner remains the signature horse in an ownership profile now in its fifth decade, and O'Brien paints an idyllic picture of life as enjoyed by retired racehorses at McManus's Martinstown Stud.

"Martinstown is heaven for horses," he says. "I often think life begins for JP's horses after they've finished racing. They get an incredible level of care and attention and are kept going in their own individual basic routine, just less demanding, to keep them happy, occupied and healthy. They have a fabulous life, and JP loves them all.