Trainers' association boss implores Curragh to hand lifeline to smaller trainers

Michael Grassick, chief executive of the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association, has implored the Curragh to provide a lifeline for aspiring handlers by dividing up bigger yards that lie dormant on the world famous training grounds.

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board is expected to change existing licensing protocols in the coming months, according to Grassick, so that two people would be able to share a licence, as is the case in many other jurisdictions.

However, Grassick backed up points made by legendary former trainer John Oxx in the Racing Post last week that the majority of trainers are struggling to make a living.