Naas monopoly latest sign of worrying lack of diversity
As the Cheltenham Festival looms, we have had another couple of untimely reminders of the paradox that is Irish jump racing. On the one hand, we can look to next week and state without fear of contradiction our representatives will once again contribute massively to the sport's most celebrated carnival.
On the other hand, the lack of diversity in the upper echelons continues to alarm, with nine of the ten entries for a Grade 3 novice chase worth €32,500 at Naas on Sunday representing one owner.
Michael and Eddie O’Leary’s Gigginstown firm may well end up fielding the entire line-up, with the JP McManus-owned Oscar Knight far from sure to take his chance.
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