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 first-season sire in 2023?
Such a deep year, and plenty have proper credentials. The broodmare band of both Tally-Ho and Yeomanstown should give each of their new horses (Inns Of Court and Invincible Army) a massive leg-up, whilst the first-crop foals of Ten Sovereigns were stand-outs.
Greatest race in the world?
The Grand National still stops our house every year. Most races can't do that.
If you could be someone else in the industry for a day who would it be, and why?
Antoine Greizmann, French soccer international (I believe he has a large bloodstock portfolio). For one day? Saturday, Dec. 10. I'd have enjoyed being Antoine that day in particular.
Emerging talent in the industry (human)?
Harry Eustace and James Horton, literally the Blind Leading the Blind.
Horse TDN should have made a Rising Star, and didn't?
Lark In The Mornin won a maiden in Listowel for Joseph O'Brien and has not seen since but I think we may hear more of him in 2023.
Under-the-radar stallion?
David Cox.
Friday night treat?
Summer evening barbecue, al fresco dining with entertaining company and some vin rouge.
Guilty pleasure outside racing?
David Futter told me recently he once asked my uncle did he play golf. “Good Lord man, you hardly think I've given up sex do you?” was the reply. I'm afraid to admit it's golf in the evenings for me.
Race I wish I had been there for…
Astadash winning the 2021 Denny Cordell Lavarack and Lanwades Stud S. in Gowran Park.
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