The world turns quickly - and government's contempt means racing is left behind

At different removes during the Covid-19 pandemic, it felt like racing had the world in its hands.

Before and after lockdowns in Ireland and Britain, there were times when it was the only show in town. Rachael Blackmore carrying all before her last spring was arguably the single most edifying and inspiring thing to happen in racing for many years.

At that point in time, while most other disciplines were also back in action, Blackmore catapulted herself and her sport into the consciousness of a plethora of otherwise oblivious observers.