Ruby Walsh: Latest strategy for Irish horse racing far from convincing

Madarra can turn the tables on Il Ridoto in the December Gold Cup at Cheltenham.

Crowsatedappletart and Gavin Brouder (far) win the Follow Us On Facebook Handicap Hurdle at Cork from One And Only (near). Report Page23 Picture: Healy Racing

The wheels of the rumour mill had been spinning for a while, and last Friday, HRI introduced its newest strategy for Irish horse racing: academy hurdles. I couldn’t understand how this plan would play out last Friday, and a week later I am still far from convinced.

I am not against change, nor do I believe that our system in horse racing is perfect, but I would have thought that with a plan comes details, projections and anticipated results.