Only last Monday, he had left six colts in the race at the forfeit stage, which wasn't for free. I didn't expect all six to be declared on Thursday morning, but four or maybe five seemed likely. One was not even a number I considered.

We all know summer milers want to hear their hooves rattle off a fast level surface which the Curragh can provide better than most of its racecourse rivals

It has happened to me on three mornings since last June, waking to the realisation that I had forgotten to open the IHRB app and tick the boxes

When you are engrossed in one train of thought, it is amazing how you fail to act on what you hear about something else.

Oh, what we once took for granted will soon seem like a treat but, either way, what we witnessed as jumping fans since last July when the National Hunt season resumed is still more than worth remembering

Honeysuckle has undoubtedly been the shining star in the hurdling division this season, winning three Grade 1s from three runs, each performance better than the one before.

The improvement Gavin Cromwell has found in this horse is quite incredible and has somehow been overlooked in the many brilliant training performances this year

Cheltenham Gold Cup winner Minella Indo might be missing, but what’s left are more than capable of shining brightly

Rachael Blackmore needs Patrick to do her a favour in the Champion Novice Hurdle in her bid to catch defending champion jockey Paul Townend

Every jockey, sports person or competitor needs a chance. It is up to each individual what they do with it