Action required: not enough being done to support bulk of professional jockeys

It’s well documented there are a few trainers dominating the National Hunt scene in Ireland and different initiatives have been implemented to help create a level playing field.

Take the series of Red Mills EBF-backed hurdles. If Willie Mullins buys a horse for less than €30,000 and wins one of those races, fair play to him, but any other trainer who buys one below the cost ceiling has a similar chance of winning, so it creates a level playing field.

The five auction races run this season have been won by Brian Cawley, Joseph O’Brien, Tom Mullins and Gordon Elliott (twice), a cross-section of the full spectrum of trainers. It's a vital series as it serves as an incentive for trainers who might need a little help.