Luke Barry

One of the most respected racing and bloodstock journalists in Britain and Ireland for over 20 years, Ryan McElligott bid adieu to the press room at the Goffs November Breeding Stock Sale as he embarked on his new role as Chief Executive of the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association. Admitting there was some emotion surrounding the move, McElligott looks back on over 20 years reporting on the sport he loves and looks ahead to the challenges he faces in his new position as the IRTA chief.  The 41-year-old wears many hats....

First job in the Thoroughbred industry? Picking stones in Ashtown House Stud whilst being told I was getting invaluable experience.   Biggest influence on your career? My parents, Frank and Liz Barry. One is very much missed and Liz still takes a strong interest in the goings on around here.   Favourite racehorse of all time, and why? I'm not old enough to have seen Red Rum, but Sea The Stars was just immense as a 3-year-old. Istabraq has always been a favourite. Pure class.   Who will be champion...

Those who work in racing know all too well the endless hours devoted to getting horses ready for the racecourse, and fans of the sport were able to see that for themselves during the first National Racehorse Week in Britain. The brainchild of National Hunt trainer Richard Phillips, the inaugural week-long spotlight on the racing industry included racing stables being open to the public all over the country, starting at Epsom and Malton, and culminating in Newmarket's popular Henry Cecil Open Weekend. It can be deemed a huge success. This...