What was your first job in the Thoroughbred industry?
I did an internship at Haras de Montaigu about 10 years ago during my school holidays.
The biggest influence on your career?
I have always had the chance to work for great people all over the world that always pushed me to go forward in the industry. Ballylinch Stud has been one of them. I learned everything there, about horses and all industry. They gave me every opportunity to learn.
Favourite racehorse of all time, and why?
It must be Allaho. For a tiny family breeding operation, he is an impossible dream coming true, he has changed our lives.
Who will be champion first-season sire in 2023?
I think Calyx could do well. He is the first son of Kingman to stand at stud and he was an impressive winner of the Coventry S. He comes from a very good Juddmonte family and is closely related to the champion Native Trail.
Greatest race in the world?
The Cheltenham Gold Cup is incredible for anyone who loves National Hunt racing. Nothing compares to the Cheltenham Festival.
If you could be someone else in the industry for a day who would it be, and why?
The master Willie Mullins. I would like to understand all the things he has to think about in a day, but also watch all those champions working at Closutton.
Emerging talent in the industry (human)?
Mark Byrne, the nicest and most interesting young talent. Always smiling and good fun.
Horse TDN should have made a Rising Star, and didn't?
The G1 Fillies Mile winner Commissioning. She won impressively first time out and has the pedigree to go on next year.
Under-the-radar stallion?
A french National Hunt stallion call Karaktar. He is the sire of the unbeaten 4-year-old hurdler in France Il Est Français from his first crop.
Friday night treat?
During winter I always enjoy a nice cheese board with a strong red wine in front of a nice fire.
Guilty pleasure outside of racing?
Rugby, I started it not that long ago, but I really enjoy the atmosphere. I am getting ready for World Cup in France.
Race I wish I had been there for…?
The 2011 Cheltenham Gold Cup. That was some battle between Long Run, Kauto Star and Denman.
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