Retiring Crowley not ruling out returning to training on a small scale

FRANCES Crowley has not ruled out a return to training on a small scale following her announcement to quit after 10 years in the role.

Crowley, who made Irish racing history three years ago by becoming the first licensed female trainer to send out an Irish Classic winner when Saoire took the 1000 Guineas at the Curragh, plans to have her final runners in the next month.

“It was a hard decision, but I have been thinking about it for a while. It’s sad in a lot of ways but I am looking to a kind of fresh start and a different way of life,” she said.