Saturday's edition of this column features Kate Harrington, assistant trainer to her mother, Jessica Harrington.
Proudest moment of 2023?
Of the team at Commonstown throughout the year. They all worked so hard in 2023 to finish third in the trainers' championship. We had more winners in 2023 than we did in 2022 and we all know the winners helped Mum beat cancer.
What is your biggest ambition for the new year?
Helping Jessica Harrington to train as may winners as possible in 2024.
Give us one horse to follow and why?
Givemethebeatboys (Ire). We definitely haven't seen his full potential on the racetrack yet.
And a young person in the industry to keep an eye on…
Keithen Kennedy. He is a 7lb claimer who rode three winners for us at the end of last season from very few rides. He could be going places.
Who do you think will be champion first-season sire this year?
Even though we haven't got one in the yard yet, I love Pinatubo (Ire). I loved his stock at all the sales. He was a champion two-year-old himself and I think he has bred his precociousness into his stock.
And the best value stallion in Europe?
It has to be Calyx (GB). He's operating at an impressive strike-rate with his first runners and had three Group-winning juveniles last year. He looks good value to me.
What's the one horse you wish you'd bought in 2023?
If we had an open cheque book the, the Frankel (GB) filly out of Millisle (Ire). Out of a Group 1-winning two-year-old and by a champion, she was a beautiful filly and from a family we know very well at Commonstown. I can't see why she won't be a superstar.
Biggest regret?
Have no regrets. Whatever happens, happens, and tomorrow is a new day.
Biggest influence on your career?
Aidan O'Brien. I spent three years working at Ballydoyle and that experience left a lasting impression on me.
If you could sit down for dinner with three people (dead or alive) who would they be and why?
Johnny Harrington. There are too many questions I never got to ask him when he was alive and he was always one for a good story. Kevin Prendergast would have to be there as well. He's just an absolute legend. Then the third guest would be Amy Marnane as you'd be guaranteed not to have silence at any point in the evening!
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