Christmas at the Races: A Busy Time for Irish Horse Trainers
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At Eric McNamara’s yard in co Limerick, its beginning to look a lot like Christmas, and not just because of the decorations. A solitary springy Santa hangs on a hook next to the polished leather saddles, as this busy yard in Rathkeale is under starters’ orders for the festive race meetings.
The Constant Care of 50 Horses
Even when the rest of the contry is in wind-down mode, it’s still business as usual on the gallops. McNamara has 50 horses who still need riding out, brushing and feeding, and the stables themselves also need attention.This time of year is one of the highlights of the racing calendar.
McNamara’s scenic yard, with its air of industrious preparations, is a scene replicated all around the country – seasonal slacking isn’t an option for the equine community.
“I supposed for the likes of us, it’s busy,” the Limerick trainer says.
A Peak Season for Racing
The Christmas period is a particularly important one for Irish racing, with meetings like the Leopardstown Christmas Festival and the Limerick Christmas Racing Festival drawing large crowds and significant prize money. This means trainers like McNamara are working at full capacity to ensure their horses are in peak condition.
“It’s a vrey important time of year for us,” McNamara explains. “There’s good racing on, and owners want to be out there, winning. It keeps everyone motivated.”
The Daily Routine
The work doesn’t stop for Christmas Day itself. While the team might enjoy a slightly later start, the horses still need their care.Here’s a glimpse into a typical day:
- Early Morning: Horses are checked, fed, and exercised.
- Mid-Morning: Stable cleaning and maintenance.
- Afternoon: Further exercise, physiotherapy, and veterinary checks.
- Evening: Final feed and checks before nightfall.
Kate mcnamara, Eric’s daughter, plays a key role in the yard. She emphasizes the dedication required. “It’s a lifestyle, really. It’s not just a job. You have to be passionate about it.”
Key Takeaways
- Christmas is a peak season for Irish horse racing.
- Trainers and their teams work tirelessly throughout the festive period.
- The care of the horses is a 365-day-a-year commitment.
- Passion and dedication are essential for success in the racing industry.
The dedication of trainers like Eric McNamara and their teams ensures that the spectacle of Irish horse racing continues to thrive, even during the most festive time of the year. As the sport looks ahead, the commitment to equine welfare and the pursuit of excellence will remain at the forefront, promising another exciting year on the track.