Cheltenham Festival - Ruby makes us all proud

In the wake of the murderous tragedies in the North and the growing economic gloom throughout the whole island, the Irish performances at Cheltenham could hardly have come at a better time. They certainly provided a welcome lift to Irish spirits this week.

Even when the English horses were winning, it was usually with an Irish jockey. In the midst of the recent Northern tragedies, the events at Cheltenham were reminder of how the British have shared their racing festival with Ireland, so much so that this week it became a veritable Irish festival.

Such things further demonstrate that we have much more in common with our neighbours across the Irish Sea than the relics of history that divide us.

Ruby Walsh’s performance at the Cheltenham Festival was a personal triumph. Earlier yesterday he set a record by winning his sixth race at the festival, and he went on to crown his exceptional week by riding the winner of the Gold Cup — the Blue Riband of jump racing — in magnificent style.

Being a phenomenon in the saddle, Ruby Walsh further distinguished himself as a real role model for all successful sports people. His father Ted was captured on television yesterday, looking down from the commentary box justifiably proud — but this was a day on which all Irish people could feel proud.

The performance of the Irish jockeys and trainers at Cheltenham was a tonic that cheered the nation (except the bookies). It took our minds off our other problems, however briefly.

The whole thing has also been a welcome boost for the Irish horse industry at a needed time. Congratulations to Ruby Walsh and all the other Irish people who have done so much to lift the national mood in the midst of the recent heartache and gloom. You have all truly done us proud.