More News
What a crazy world we are living in these days. Only four weeks ago I was watching images of missiles raining down on Dubai, with the iconic Burj Khalifa Hotel in flames and panicked Irish and UK citizens trying to flee the city.
Then last weekend, just 6km away from the damaged hotel, the 30th staging of the Dubai World Cup meeting took place at Meydan Racecourse as if nothing had happened.
My Racing StorySponsored By Tote
I'm from just outside Mullingar in Co Westmeath and I grew up around horses. Dad (trainer Robbie Burns) always had horses at home, so I was definitely born into the game. I would have always had a pony growing up and then I started riding the racehorses out around 10 or 11. I moved into pony racing around 14. I always wanted to be a jockey, that was always what was in my head. I had two good years pony racing that included a four-timer one day in Ardee. Pony racing was definitely a big help before I went to the track. It definitely sharpens your skills for the racetrack. I rode a good bit for Shane Crabbe, he got me started with my first winner pony racing. Then I rode for Mary and Jimmy Brady, and plenty of others. I was champion lady rider in 2023 and 2024. That initial pony racing experience gives you a buzz to keep going and you just want to get out onto the racecourse proper and onto bigger things.
Aidan O’Brien stars on show in public gallop
Emma Nagle, Johnny Ward and Paddy Flood discuss the week’s big racing stories.
By John O'Riordan - Beaten no more than a length on both juvenile starts, OCEAN'S BREATH can shed his maiden status at the third attempt. A promising second on his introduction at Navan last October, the Ger Lyons-trained colt again shaped with promise when fourth back at that same venue on his second run. Although he could have done with a more favourable draw, Colin Keane is sure to have him smartly into stride and, a high draw can often prove advantageous over sprint trips when the field comes stand side. Saint Agatha finished second on her debut at the Curragh before disappointing next time. She has to be respected if back to her best. Allsortz is another with solid claims for David Marnane.
