Ruby Walsh: Dad exited the tv stage at a time of his choosing but he'll still make his presence felt

Ted Walsh announced his retirement from racing punditry at Punchestown on Saturday

FAMILY AFFAIR: Ted Walsh gets a kiss from daughter Katie as son Ruby looks on after announcing his retirement from RTÉ Racing. Picture: Healy Racing

Last Saturday, my Dad headed for Punchestown and decided it would be the last time he would do so as a racing broadcaster. He had mentioned a while back that he wasn't sure how long more he would continue in his role with RTÉ Racing, but that was as much as he had said. Long-term plans only seem to be made for his horses; the rest is taken by the day.

I doubt he set out 40 years ago with a plan as to where working for RTÉ Racing would bring him, but he took up the opportunity and ran with it. It was a run that lasted four decades and one he thoroughly enjoyed without ever feeling like he was working.