Ruby Walsh and Pat Smullen were the stars at last night’s Horse Racing Ireland Awards, each receiving the Racing Hero Award.

In the shadows of many of the true giants of the sport of kings, it would be easy for a lifelong racing fan to get lost in the moment of excitement.

The conversation takes place prior to the dreadful news his friend and long-time weigh-room colleague Pat Smullen would need to undergo a further course of chemotherapy following a setback in his recovery from pancreatic cancer.

A health setback means Pat Smullen will be unable to ride in his Champions Race for Cancer Trials Ireland on day two of Longines Irish Champions Weekend.

Pat Smullen will return to the saddle one last time, for charity, this September.