I was lucky enough to team up with this red-hot trainer who is rising to the challenge

Last week's column focused on the strength of the Wexford yards and how they have driven the rest of us to raise our game. Tipperary-based Sam Curling has definitely risen to the challenge.

His career-best total of 34 wins saw him finish in second place in the handlers' list last season, eight behind Colin Bowe and seven ahead of third-placed Sean Doyle.

Sam has made a fine start to the season and is leading the way with nine winners after five last weekend. I was lucky enough to team up with him for two legs of his treble on last Saturday's Lisronagh card.