Ruby Walsh: Why not start Christmas early? 

Leopardstown’s St Stephen’s Day card and Limerick’s from the 28th would be a great day on the 23rd, giving everyone a two-day hiatus before three days racing on the bounce.

STRONG CONTENDER: Strong Leader looked an improved horse when winning at Newbury on his seasonal reappearance last month and looks the one to beat in the Long Walk Hurdle. Picture: Bradley Collyer/PA

Thurles and Ascot — perhaps I should include Haydock, too — kick off the Christmas racing this afternoon. The Berkshire venue hosts most of the star names on the show, which is obvious as it hosts the highest-class racing, but the fact that so much good racing will get lost in the frenzy of action after Christmas Day, I can’t help wondering why no one has the foresight to come this side of the big day.

Why would Limerick decide that December 28, in a direct clash with Leopardstown’s Savills Chase, is the right day to stage their biggest race? The only answer I can come up with is that they must feel they are guaranteed a crowd on St Stephen’s Day, so pushing back their best race will entice more people to come on December 28.