Podcasts about Aintree

The Grand National is over, giving PK and Harry Cobden time to reflect not only on Aintree, but also on Fairyhouse, and Cork before that! A nasty incident at Wincanton this week is also up for discussion...Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode! It's Harry Cobden and the Weekly Podcast, coming to you straight... From The Horse's Mouth.. 18+ GambleAware

Tom in for Nick and joined by senior writer at the Racing Post Lee Mottershead. We initially discuss two key bits of news that broke yesterday. First, trainer Evan Williams being sentenced to three years in prison having been found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm. Second, the news that Laafi has indeed been disqualified from the race in which he finished first past the post at Aintree and we ask whether or not it would be preferable to DQ horses on the day. Trainer Oliver Greenall gives his view and also talks of a new syndicate venture he and Josh Guerriero are rolling out. We hear from Charlie Poste who has more horses going through the ring today at Tattersalls Craven Breeze Up Sale and he also touches on rider Sam Lee whose funeral it is today. With that in mind and in response to the Sky News feature on jockey mental health, Nick is joined by chief executive of the IJF Lisa Hancock who speaks of all the work they do on this front. Newbury's George Hill gives an update on the latest conditions at the track which throw Constitution Hill's participation in the John Porter into doubt. Karl Burke is likely to have the favourite for that race and he touches on his touches as well as Hankelow in tomorrow's Craven Stakes and we have the latest from Hong Kong with Jim McGrath.

Tom in for Nick and joined by senior writer at the Racing Post Lee Mottershead. We initially discuss two key bits of news that broke yesterday. First, trainer Evan Williams being sentenced to three years in prison having been found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm. Second, the news that Laafi has indeed been disqualified from the race in which he finished first past the post at Aintree and we ask whether or not it would be preferable to DQ horses on the day. Trainer Oliver Greenall gives his view and also talks of a new syndicate venture he and Josh Guerriero are rolling out. We hear from Charlie Poste who has more horses going through the ring today at Tattersalls Craven Breeze Up Sale and he also touches on rider Sam Lee whose funeral it is today. With that in mind and in response to the Sky News feature on jockey mental health, Nick is joined by chief executive of the IJF Lisa Hancock who speaks of all the work they do on this front. Newbury's George Hill gives an update on the latest conditions at the track which throw Constitution Hill's participation in the John Porter into doubt. Karl Burke is likely to have the favourite for that race and he touches on his touches as well as Hankelow in tomorrow's Craven Stakes and we have the latest from Hong Kong with Jim McGrath.

In today's episode of iGaming Daily, SBC Media Manager Charlie Horner is joined by SBC Editor-at-Large Ted Menmuir and iGaming Expert Editor Joe Streeter as the trio discuss the shifting landscape of the UK retail betting sector following a massive Grand National weekend, the fallout of recent tax hikes, and the uncertain future of the high-street bookmaker.Tune in to today's episode as we explore:The Grand National Aftermath: A look at the betting volume from Aintree and the controversial calls from Green Party Leader Zack Polanski to ban horse racing entirely.The Retail Squeeze: How the 40% tax on online casino operations is inadvertently forcing operators to slash costs and close brick-and-mortar shops to maintain efficiency.The Future of William Hill: Analyzing reports that evoke is looking to sell the iconic brand's retail estate and who the potential bidders might be in this climate.Community Pillars vs. "Hubs of Evil": Joe Streeter shares his firsthand experience working in betting shops to challenge the negative perceptions often found in the UK press.A Glimmer of Hope: Why Buzz Bingo and the bingo sector might be the only positive stories in a retail environment facing further sports betting tax hikes in 2027.Host: Charlie HornerGuests: Ted Menmuir & Joe StreeterProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: Anaya McDonaldLearn how Optimove's Positionless Marketing is changing how iGaming teams operate. Discover how operators are using Optimove's Positionless Marketing Platform to launch personalised CRM campaigns, dynamically change casino lobbies and bet slips, and create engaging gamified experiences. Learn more at optimove.com.Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

Aintree may be over, but Joe Logue returns for the first of two bonus shows this week, covering Wednesday's action from Day 2 of the Craven Meeting at Newmarket and Cheltenham's rescheduled April meeting at Haydock. Be sure to subscribe to the Paddy Power Racing YouTube Channel to catch Harry Cobden previewing his weekly rides, and lots more great racing content! https://www.youtube.com/@paddypowerhorseracing It's Wednesday Tipping, coming to you straight "From The Horse's Mouth"... 18+ | gambleaware.org

Nick is joined by Lydia Hislop for Monday's show, looking through the racing headlines from around the world. With the review of Aintree occupying its own edition, this show focuses on the Flat and the Classic trials this week, but opens with the news that veteran rider Joe Fanning, out of the saddle since November, has had surgery for prostate cancer, but is already eyeing a return to race riding. Also on today's show, news from Ballydoyle on running plans for this week, plus David Menuisier on his Nell Gwyn and classic hopeful Inis Mor, trainer Adrian Bott reflecting on the triumph of Sir Delius in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Randwick, and Fernando Laffon on the two progeny of Persian King that have lit up the early French Classic Trials.

Nick is joined by Lydia Hislop for Monday's show, looking through the racing headlines from around the world. With the review of Aintree occupying its own edition, this show focuses on the Flat and the Classic trials this week, but opens with the news that veteran rider Joe Fanning, out of the saddle since November, has had surgery for prostate cancer, but is already eyeing a return to race riding. Also on today's show, news from Ballydoyle on running plans for this week, plus David Menuisier on his Nell Gwyn and classic hopeful Inis Mor, trainer Adrian Bott reflecting on the triumph of Sir Delius in the Queen Elizabeth Stakes at Randwick, and Fernando Laffon on the two progeny of Persian King that have lit up the early French Classic Trials.

The Grand National and all things Aintree are pored over in this week's edition of The Front Page.Lee Mottershead, Jonathan Harding and Maddy Playle look back at I Am Maximus's second success in the sport's biggest race and reflect on a Grand National that was filled with drama.The rest of the Aintree festival is also discussed in detail in a show that examines the disappointing seasonal reappearance of Derby favourite Pierre Bonnard and the sport's latest attempt to persuade the government to think again about affordability checks.

If you've come here looking for the hottest tips on all the runners & riders at Aintree, then you're in the wrong place! Instead, we talk pressure with former England & Chelsea Left Back, Wayne Bridge.You can hear The Kickabout live on Radio X from 11am every Saturday. Get in touch on kickabout@radiox.co.uk

With the Grand National and the Masters well underway, Off the Ball's John Duggan joins Pat to give him the latest.

Day 2 of the Randox Grand National Festival and Nick comes to you from the track, alongside Lydia Hislop, to look ahead to the action this afternoon as well as reflect on yesterday's results. Mouse Morris is along as he supervises his Topham runner Indiana Jones as well as Kieran Burke who has Soul Icon in the sam contest this afternoon. Dan Barber has the latest from Timeform and finally Laura Wright joins the line up ahead of singing the national anthem ahead of tomorrow's big race.

Day 2 of the Randox Grand National Festival and Nick comes to you from the track, alongside Lydia Hislop, to look ahead to the action this afternoon as well as reflect on yesterday's results. Mouse Morris is along as he supervises his Topham runner Indiana Jones as well as Kieran Burke who has Soul Icon in the sam contest this afternoon. Dan Barber has the latest from Timeform and finally Laura Wright joins the line up ahead of singing the national anthem ahead of tomorrow's big race.

In The Know is back and now proudly sponsored by Boyle Sports.Join Ross Brierley, Pricewise Tom Segal and Robbie Wilders as they preview the 2026 Grand National at Aintree.Sign up to Boyle Sports: https://ads.boylesports.com/redirect.aspx?pid=54448&bid=7681

Racing in Ireland on Saturday is in Bellewstown (11th April 2026). Cross-channel, the meeting in Aintree includes the 2026 Grand National, while there are also cards in Chepstow, Newcastle, Yarmouth and Southwell. With a full preview of the Aintree Grand National, and his 'Saturday Six.'

Grand National Day has arrived, and the main man, Harry Cobden, is back in the hot seat to spin through his rides on Day 3 of the Aintree Festival, including his mount in the big one! Be sure to subscribe to the Paddy Power Racing YouTube Channel to catch Patrick Mullins on last year's Grand National success, Harry Cobden previewing his weekly rides and also our Tipping Show with Ruby Walsh and Rory Delargy every day of Aintree! https://www.youtube.com/@paddypowerhorseracing  Enter our FREE TO PLAY game Eliminator here: https://promos.paddypower.com/promotion?promoCode=FTPELIMINATORGN It's Harry Cobden's Aintree Day 3 Preview, coming to you straight "From The Horse's Mouth"... 18+ | gambleaware.org

It's Grand National Day at Aintree, and the dynamic duo of Ruby Walsh and Rory Delargy are back to run through the final card at the Merseyside venue. Be sure to subscribe to the Paddy Power Racing YouTube Channel to catch Patrick Mullins on last year's Grand National success, Harry Cobden previewing his weekly rides and also our Tipping Show with Ruby Walsh and Rory Delargy every day of Aintree! https://www.youtube.com/@paddypowerhorseracing  Enter our FREE TO PLAY game Eliminator here: https://promos.paddypower.com/promotion?promoCode=FTPELIMINATORGN It's Aintree Day 3 Tipping, coming to you straight "From The Horse's Mouth"... 18+ | gambleaware.org

Coming to you live from Aintree on Day 1 of the Random Grand National Festival and Nick is joined by David Yates to look ahead to the action this afternoon whilst Matt Chapman makes an appearance whilst out on track. Georgina Scott is out picking grass with last year's Champion Hurdle winner Golden Ace who steps back up in trip this afternoon in the Aintree Hurdle and discusses her chance whilst Cian Collins share his hopes for Jazzy Matty, who makes a surprise appearance over hurdles tomorrow, taking advantage of a lower mark than over fences. We get the word on other horses out and about including Bill Baxter, who tomorrow will bid to win a second Topham and Molly Armytage looks ahead to her first ride over the famous National fences in this afternoon's Foxhunters'. Ahead of this evening's GOFFS Sale on course, Derek O'Connor and Tim Kent run through the catalogue whilst NYRA's Chief Revenue Officer Tony Allevato catches up with Nick as they discuss the role Fox and NYRA could play as FanDuel and preparing to wind down. Finally, Will Kedjanyi has a politics update and previews the latest Bet the House podcast.

Micheál Deasy and Charlie Poste join host Tom Stanley to preview Aintree Saturday, including the Grand National. Subscribe for free to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3TpGzk1 Twitter: https://bit.ly/3Trz7Fb Facebook: https://bit.ly/3cqQlC4 Instagram: https://bit.ly/3Aq7qE0 Search Matchbook Insights for our latest written previews. 18+ | BeGambleAware

GRAND NATIONAL DAY BETTING GUIDE | FINAL AINTREE PICKS It's Grand National Day and the Final Furlong Podcast team of Emmet Kennedy, Andy Newton, George Gorman and Jaime Wrenn are back with their final answers for the biggest race in the world. After landing three winning NAPs last weekend at 16/1, 9/1 and 4/1, the team look to follow up with another strong performance at Aintree.

Coming to you live from Aintree on Day 1 of the Random Grand National Festival and Nick is joined by David Yates to look ahead to the action this afternoon whilst Matt Chapman makes an appearance whilst out on track. Georgina Scott is out picking grass with last year's Champion Hurdle winner Golden Ace who steps back up in trip this afternoon in the Aintree Hurdle and discusses her chance whilst Cian Collins share his hopes for Jazzy Matty, who makes a surprise appearance over hurdles tomorrow, taking advantage of a lower mark than over fences. We get the word on other horses out and about including Bill Baxter, who tomorrow will bid to win a second Topham and Molly Armytage looks ahead to her first ride over the famous National fences in this afternoon's Foxhunters'. Ahead of this evening's GOFFS Sale on course, Derek O'Connor and Tim Kent run through the catalogue whilst NYRA's Chief Revenue Officer Tony Allevato catches up with Nick as they discuss the role Fox and NYRA could play as FanDuel and preparing to wind down. Finally, Will Kedjanyi has a politics update and previews the latest Bet the House podcast.

Paul Hawksbee and Charlie Baker kick off the Grand National Festival by heading straight to the track! We check in with Rupert Bell and Lizzie Kelly live from Aintree for all the colour and insight from a massive opening day of racing.Back in the studio, we mix the turf with the turf-war of the dugout as Sammy Lander, the world's first professional Substitutions Coach, joins us to talk about his new book, Finishers.Plus, we get a very cynical Masters Special from our resident ChatGPT and Andy Jacobs joins Geoff Peters for a special edition of the Birthday Spread.Additionally, You can find more from us here:Instagram: @tSHandJTwitter: @tSHandJYouTube: talkSPORTWebsite: Live Radio, Breaking Sports News, Opinion - talkSPORT Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Harry joins us once again as he looks ahead to Day 2 of the Aintree Festival, with a strong book of rides, headlined by Regent's Stroll in the Mildmay Novices' Chase. Perhaps might have been headlined by No Drama This End in the Sefton, but tune in to hear more about that... Be sure to subscribe to the Paddy Power Racing YouTube Channel to catch Patrick Mullins on last year's Grand National success, Harry Cobden previewing his weekly rides and also our Tipping Show with Ruby Walsh and Rory Delargy every day of Aintree! https://www.youtube.com/@paddypowerhorseracing  Enter our FREE TO PLAY game Eliminator here: https://promos.paddypower.com/promotion?promoCode=FTPELIMINATORGN It's Harry Cobden's Aintree Day 2 Preview, coming to you straight "From The Horse's Mouth"... 18+ | gambleaware.org

Let the memories of winners make you smile, not the ending make you cry! It's the finale of Fridays With Fran for the 2025/2026 season & Fran is back as always to sign off with some winners from Dundalk as well as some bonus tips for Aintree! Be sure to subscribe to the Paddy Power Racing YouTube Channel to catch Harry Cobden previewing his weekly rides and also our Tipping Show with Ruby Walsh and Rory Delargy every week! https://www.youtube.com/@paddypowerhorseracing It's Fridays with Fran, coming to you straight "From The Horse's Mouth"... 18+ | gambleaware.org

Matt Tombs and Donn McClean join host Tom Stanley to preview the next two days at Aintree. Subscribe for free to our YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3TpGzk1 Twitter: https://bit.ly/3Trz7Fb Facebook: https://bit.ly/3cqQlC4 Instagram: https://bit.ly/3Aq7qE0 Search Matchbook Insights for our latest written previews. 18+ | BeGambleAware

The Final Furlong Podcast with 1xBet gives you the inside track on the Grand National at Aintree and the Tattersalls Craven Breeze-Up Sale. First up: Top jockey Danny Mullins joins Emmet Kennedy to break down every major contender from the most powerful yard in jumps racing, including: • I Am Maximus (Former winner and last years runner-up)• Grangeclare West (Last years 3rd)• Nick Rockett (defending champion)• Captain Cody (Scottish Grand National winner)• Quai De Bourbon (Irish Grand National 3rd)• Lecky Watson (Grade 1 winner)• Spanish Harlem (Kerry National winner)• High Class Hero• Champ Kiely (Dual Grade 1 winner) Danny gives a rare insider perspective on Willie Mullins' Grand National runners, their chances at Aintree, and the strength of the team across the entire meeting. Plus, he reveals the one horse outside the Mullins yard he would most like to ride in the Grand National. Then: We're joined by Tattersalls Director of Marketing Jason Singh, who explains why the Tattersalls Craven Breeze-Up Sale has become a global production line of Group 1 winners and Royal Ascot contenders. Inside this segment: • What a breeze-up sale actually is — and why it matters• What buyers are really looking for on the Rowley Mile• How speed, attitude, and professionalism separate elite prospects• Why this sale consistently produces top-level winners• The growing international demand from global buyers• Key pedigree insights and catalogue depth• Where the smart money looks for value This is a complete insider's guide to the Tattersalls Craven Breeze-Up Sale, with actionable insight for racing fans, bettors, and bloodstock enthusiasts. If you want to understand where winners come from — and where the Grand National could be won — this episode is essential listening.

Max Rushden and Charlie Baker are back in the hot seats for Paul Hawksbee and Andy Jacobs, and they've brought a chaotic mix of elite sports insight and top-tier comedy to the afternoon slot.The guys are joined by talkSPORT's resident racing expert Rupert Bell to dissect the field for the upcoming Grand National. Rupert identifies the leading favorites and uncovers the long-shots that could surprise the bookies at Aintree.Then, things take a turn for the hilarious as comedy sensation Paul Smith joins the show. Paul offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the stand-up circuit. To round things off, Tom Price and Tom Green from the Golf Is Ruining My Life podcast drop by to preview The Masters and explain why Augusta is both a dream and a nightmare. Plus, we hear your best efforts in the Two-Word Phone-In.Instagram: @tSHandJTwitter: @tSHandJWebsite: Live Radio, Breaking Sports News, Opinion - talkSPORT Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aintree is here, and before he heads to Liverpool, our man Harry Cobden runs through his key rides on Day 1 of the Aintree Festival,  including a big chance on Aintree specialist, Sans Bruit.  Be sure to subscribe to the Paddy Power Racing YouTube Channel to catch Patrick Mullins on last year's Grand National success, Harry Cobden previewing his weekly rides and also our Tipping Show with Ruby Walsh and Rory Delargy every day of Aintree! https://www.youtube.com/@paddypowerhorseracing  Enter our FREE TO PLAY game Eliminator here: https://skillzone.paddypower.com/eliminator/ It's  Harry Cobden's Aintree Day 1 Preview, coming to you straight "From The Horse's Mouth"... 18+ | gambleaware.org

Ruby and Rory return for Day 2 at Aintree, as the dream team tackle another stellar card packed with Grade 1s, plus the Topham Handicap Chase - a final look at the Grand National fences before the big one on Saturday! Be sure to subscribe to the Paddy Power Racing YouTube Channel to catch Patrick Mullins on last year's Grand National success, Harry Cobden previewing his weekly rides and also our Tipping Show with Ruby Walsh and Rory Delargy every day of Aintree! https://www.youtube.com/@paddypowerhorseracing  Enter our FREE TO PLAY game Eliminator here: https://promos.paddypower.com/promotion?promoCode=FTPELIMINATORGN It's Aintree Day 2 Tipping, coming to you straight "From The Horse's Mouth"... 18+ | gambleaware.org

Nick is joined by Racing Post senior writer Lee Mottershead for a look at today's racing headlines. Looking ahead to Aintree, Nick is joined by trainer Gordon Elliott (six likely runners in the Grand National) and owner Richard Thompson (Grangeclare West). Plus, Paul Byrne on owning Irish National winner Soldier in Milan, BHA CEO Brant Dunshea on today's open letter to the Secretary of State on affordability checks, Dan Barber's Timeform perspective, and CJ Smith on the revival of racing in Zimbabwe.

After landing three winning NAPs last weekend, including 16/1, 4/1 and the 9/1 winning NAP Soldier In Milan in the Irish Grand National, Emmet Kennedy is joined by Andy Newton, George Gorman and Jaime Wrenn to preview the best bets for the Aintree Grand National meeting.

Nick is joined by Racing Post senior writer Lee Mottershead for a look at today's racing headlines. Looking ahead to Aintree, Nick is joined by trainer Gordon Elliott (six likely runners in the Grand National) and owner Richard Thompson (Grangeclare West). Plus, Paul Byrne on owning Irish National winner Soldier in Milan, BHA CEO Brant Dunshea on today's open letter to the Secretary of State on affordability checks, Dan Barber's Timeform perspective, and CJ Smith on the revival of racing in Zimbabwe.

It's Aintree Festival time again, and with four huge Grade 1s on offer on Day 1, Ruby and Rory are ready to get stuck in! Be sure to subscribe to the Paddy Power Racing YouTube Channel to catch Patrick Mullins on last year's Grand National success, Harry Cobden previewing his weekly rides and also our Tipping Show with Ruby Walsh and Rory Delargy every day of Aintree! https://www.youtube.com/@paddypowerhorseracing  Enter our FREE TO PLAY game Eliminator here: https://skillzone.paddypower.com/eliminator/ It's Aintree Day 1 Tipping, coming to you straight "From The Horse's Mouth"... 18+ | gambleaware.org

Who will win Saturday's Randox Grand National and what on earth is happening at Chelmsford? We attempt to answer both questions and much more besides in this week's edition of The Front Page.Lee Mottershead, Jonathan Harding and Liam Headd look at all the sport's biggest stories, including another Cheltenham controversy, Clifford Lee's winning return to the saddle and an expensive bit of IT drama at Ballydoyle. With a detailed analysis of what needs to happen if Chelmsford is to resume racing and a comprehensive look ahead to this weekend's Aintree extravaganza, it's another packed show.

Podcast 411 Last July, I had a conversation with my father-in-law. He was scared and worried. He was due to retire at the end of 2026 (now only a few months away), and he had no idea what to do.  It was that conversation that inspired me to dig deep into what it takes to build a solid, meaningful and joyful retirement. That's what we're going to look into today. Links: Email Me | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Linkedin   Get the Designing The Perfect Retirement Programme Interview with Harvey Smith   Get Your Copy Of Your Time, Your Way: Time Well Managed, Life Well Lived The Working With… Weekly Newsletter Carl Pullein Learning Centre Carl's YouTube Channel Carl Pullein Coaching Programmes Subscribe to my Substack  The Working With… Podcast Previous episodes page Script | 411 Hello, and welcome to episode 411 of the Your Time, Your Way Podcast. A podcast to answer all your questions about productivity, time management, self-development, and goal planning. My name is Carl Pullein, and I am your host of this show.  I'm in my mid-fifties now, a time when many people start to think about what they will do when they walk out of their workplace for the last time and enter the next chapter of their lives.  It's a scary time for many people. Yes, there's a lot to look forward to: being able to design your own days and go on trips whenever you want, without needing to submit a holiday request form. But there's an underlying sense of anxiety, will I be bored? Will I lose my health? Will I be lonely?  This is why giving some thought to your retirement before you retire can bring you a sense of relief and purpose.  But what do you want to do?  As the productivity saying goes, “You can do anything but not everything”.  So one of the first things to do when you begin thinking about your retirement is ask that question: What do I want to do?  And this is important.  My grandfather was a farmer all his working life. He had a dairy farm, and each morning at 5:00 am, he would wake up, bring the cows into the dairy and start the milking for the day.  He did this for over forty years, seven days a week. Farming is not so much work; it's a way of life. When my grandfather was not milking, he was repairing machines and fences, and doing all the other odd jobs that needed to be done.  At the age of 60, he retired.  His plan was to travel, something he's never been able to do, enjoy a little gardening and take life easy.  That didn't happen. For someone who had been active all his life, not having to get up early in the morning, come rain or shine, and now being able to stay in bed and have a leisurely morning reading the newspapers was a temptation that was hard to resist.  And so he stopped. He didn't do very much, and within two years, he was dead.  He was diagnosed with oesophageal cancer, and while the operation to remove the cancer was successful, he developed complications and passed away a few weeks after the operation.  I was only 12 years old when he died, and it was the first family death I experienced. It was a horrible experience. I was close to my grandfather. He was a lovely person.  It woke me up to the frailties of a human life at an early age. Aunties and uncles often said he died because he retired. I was too young to understand that at the time, but I remember a friend of my mother's later once telling me that the biggest killer is your armchair.  That person was the famous international show jumper, Harvey Smith.  Harvey is 87 years old now. When he retired from show jumping in 1990, he didn't sit around in his armchair. His dream was to build a horse racing stable. And together with his wife, Sue, that is what they did.  In 2013, Harvey and Sue trained the horse Auroras Encore, which won the prestigious Grand National horse race at Aintree in Liverpool that year. I know many of my non-British listeners may not have heard of the Grand National, but anyone in the UK will know it is one of the biggest races on the horse racing calendar.  But not only that, Harvey's written at least four books, and he still doesn't spend much time in his armchair.  If you want to hear Harvey's words of wisdom, there is a superb YouTube video in which he and Sue are interviewed. I'll put that video link in the show notes. Harvey is a true Yorkshireman with the wonderful Yorkshire wit.  Retirement is not the end. It's the start of a new chapter in your life. You have built up a wealth of knowledge and experience and likely collected quite a few interests along the way. Retirement is your time to use that knowledge and work on the things that interest you.  So what interests you?  I've had a love of bonsai trees since I was in my twenties. I was probably inspired by the film The Karate Kid.  While I have a couple of trees now, I don't have the time to properly learn to nurture and grow them. However, when the time comes for me to slow down and retire, one thing I will do is spend a couple of weeks in Japan learning from the masters.  When I was researching retirement for my father-in-law, I came to see that there are three pillars you need to ensure are built into any plans you may have. The first is mental. This does not mean mental health as it is discussed today; it is about learning.  Learning something new.  That could be a foreign language, art history, or how to train racehorses. It doesn't matter so much what you learn; it is about learning something challenging. Something to get your brain around. Something that will make you think.  The dangers today are AI and the loss of critical thinking. In retirement, you do not want to lose the ability to think critically.  Go out and buy the textbooks, enrol in courses, listen to podcasts and do the hard work of learning. Keep your brain active.  It's this that will keep you sharp and cognitive. As the saying goes, “if you don't use it, you lose it.”  The second pillar is physical. After we reach 30, we start to lose muscle mass. Again, it's the “if you don't use it, you lose it” problem.  Unfortunately, for most of us, around thirty, we get chained to a desk and a computer, and we use our arms to help us get out of a chair. We stop using most of our muscles. This weakens our strength, and it is gradual. Hardly noticeable. So we don't see the damage we are doing to ourselves.  When we reach our mid-fifties, that muscle loss accelerates. We can lose as much as 10% of our muscle mass over five years. It's scary.  The consequence of this is that the risk of falling rises, and one of the biggest killers of older Adults is the complications of dealing with the injuries caused by falling. Broken hips, legs and shoulders. Not at all nice.  By adding in a daily exercise session that focuses on your core strength—stomach, legs and ankles, and doing some cardio such as walking up hills to the point where you become out of breath, is all you need.  Thirty minutes a day. That's it.  If you add in some stretching exercises later in the day, you are building a natural defence against one of the biggest underlying killers among older people.  Your muscles are your natural defence against many lifestyle-related diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and gout! Yes, gout is making a comeback. A disease prevalent in the 16th and 17th centuries is making a comeback because of how we live today.  Build in some exercise every day.  If you want a simple exercise programme, the one that the late Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh, used every day from his time in the Royal Navy, then look up the 5BX. Look for the original Royal Canadian Air Force instructional video on YouTube. It's brilliant and very quaint.  If you want to know how effective this exercise programme is, look at Prince Philip at his final public engagement. He was 97 years old then, and you can see from the way he walked just how fit he was.  The final pillar is social.  When we are at work, there is a natural connection with our coworkers. There's a camaraderie and a social aspect to working with other people.  We may not like our coworkers, but there's still the connection.  When we retire, that disappears, and it's important to replace it with new connections.  However, there's a danger here. It can be tempting to replace all those meetings on our work calendars with volunteer work in retirement. Don't do this.  Go back to asking yourself what you want to do. Hopefully, what you want to do excites you. If you are replacing those work connections with volunteer work you do not find interesting, you will soon find yourself swamped.  Not what retirement is all about.  Be very strict about what you will get involved in. Be clear about what you want out of this chapter of your life.  Perhaps some of the hobbies you try will bring with them exciting connections. Imagine how many new people Harvey Smith has met through horse racing.  But do not rush into it. Take your time. This period of your life is about you and what you want from it.  If you are worried about retirement, or are retired and have found yourself overwhelmed by all the activities you have embarked on, I have just launched a brand-new programme to help you.  Ever since I started writing about time management and productivity ten years ago, I have had many people ask me to put together something for retirees.  It was my conversation with my father-in-law last year that started my research. And that research uncovered some of the most inspiring stories of people I have come across.  There was Jack Weber, a retired dentist who wrote a memoir of his life and published it on Amazon at the age of 100.  And then there was the gentleman who inspired me when I was fifteen years old.  I was a competitive track and field athlete back then, and this gentleman was in his 80s. He would be one of the first people to turn up to training every Tuesday and Thursday evening. When he was younger, he was a sprinter. Now, in his 80s, he ran marathons. Although he was in his 80s, he looked about 65.  I remember saying to myself that when I am 80, I want to be doing that. And that has been and still is a huge motivation for me. I've never stopped running and exercising for an extended period. I have tried to keep myself reasonably fit throughout my working life so that when I do finally retire, I will have the strength to run those marathons.  Watch out, London, New York, Tokyo and Paris. I'm going to be running your streets in twenty-five years' time!  If you are interested in this programme, I will put the details in the show notes. This programme will teach you about the three pillars, the pitfalls to avoid, and how to manage your calendar so you are not overwhelming yourself.  In addition, by joining, you get free access to a community of like-minded people where you can share your experiences and learn from others who are enjoying this fantastic chapter of your life.  Thank you for listening, and it just remains for me now to wish you all a very, very productive week.   

Ruby and Rory are back to round off the Easter weekend as they run through Sunday's action at Fairyhouse and Cork, before turning their attention to Monday's Irish Grand National. Be sure to subscribe to the Paddy Power Racing YouTube Channel to catch Harry Cobden previewing his weekly rides and also our Tipping Show with Ruby Walsh and Rory Delargy every day of Aintree! ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@paddypowerhorseracing⁠ It's Easter Sunday and Monday Tipping, coming to you straight "From The Horse's Mouth"... 18+ | gambleaware.org

Ruby and Rory are back to kick off a huge weekend of racing as they spin through the ITV Racing action at Musselburgh and Haydock, before attention turns to Day 1 of the Easter Festival at Fairyhouse. Be sure to subscribe to the Paddy Power Racing YouTube Channel to catch Harry Cobden previewing his weekly rides and also our Tipping Show with Ruby Walsh and Rory Delargy every day of Aintree! ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@paddypowerhorseracing⁠ It's Saturday Tipping, coming to you straight "From The Horse's Mouth"... 18+ | gambleaware.org

Charlotte Greenway in for Nick and joined by the Racing Post's Jonathan Harding, who starts by looking at the issues at Chelmsford racecourse that meant today and tomorrow's fixtures will not take place. Since the BHA's ruling yesterday, both parties have posted contradicting statements and Jon looks at whose role it was to protect trainers, owners, jockey etc in this situation. Trainer Ben Pauling joins the show to look ahead to Monday's Irish National, for which he has favourite The Jukebox Kid, as well as running through his team for Aintree and Punchestown. Paddy Twomey discusses some of his leading lights for the 2026 season and Ben Atkins has the latest from the point to pointing field in Britain.

Charlotte Greenway in for Nick and joined by the Racing Post's Jonathan Harding, who starts by looking at the issues at Chelmsford racecourse that meant today and tomorrow's fixtures will not take place. Since the BHA's ruling yesterday, both parties have posted contradicting statements and Jon looks at whose role it was to protect trainers, owners, jockey etc in this situation. Trainer Ben Pauling joins the show to look ahead to Monday's Irish National, for which he has favourite The Jukebox Kid, as well as running through his team for Aintree and Punchestown. Paddy Twomey discusses some of his leading lights for the 2026 season and Ben Atkins has the latest from the point to pointing field in Britain.

Josh steps in for Nick with a packed show covering the key stories across racing, including Paul Nicholls' plans for Aintree and his reaction to Cheltenham's decision to cancel their final three fixtures due to track work. Harry Derham joins to discuss Jackie Hobbs' Grade 1 chance at Fairyhouse and the future targets of his exciting novices, while Kieran Clark breaks down the standout Timeform performances from Dubai World Cup night and Erdenali's striking debut at Saint-Cloud. The episode also dives into the first-season sire market with Mark Cancea, features Nick's interview with Champion Bumper-winning breeder Christopher McKeever, and tackles the big talking point of Constitution Hill's opening flat rating of 101, with the Racing Post's Jonathan Harding on hand throughout to give his verdict.

Josh steps in for Nick with a packed show covering the key stories across racing, including Paul Nicholls' plans for Aintree and his reaction to Cheltenham's decision to cancel their final three fixtures due to track work. Harry Derham joins to discuss Jackie Hobbs' Grade 1 chance at Fairyhouse and the future targets of his exciting novices, while Kieran Clark breaks down the standout Timeform performances from Dubai World Cup night and Erdenali's striking debut at Saint-Cloud. The episode also dives into the first-season sire market with Mark Cancea, features Nick's interview with Champion Bumper-winning breeder Christopher McKeever, and tackles the big talking point of Constitution Hill's opening flat rating of 101, with the Racing Post's Jonathan Harding on hand throughout to give his verdict.

Luke Harvey was an elite jump jockey winning races at the famous Cheltenham Festival and Aintree among other successes. Since retiring he's become a beloved racing broadcaster for ITV, Sky Sports and others. In this conversation Luke tells me why he thinks the 2026 edition was the best 'Cheltenham' in decades.In a time when we're also considering the healthiness of much of elite sport - jump jockeys have a lot of financial uncertainty to contend with and physical jeopardy - Luke explains why he's forever grateful for the like horse racing has given him.Also an interesting riff here on the enigmatic nature of both humans and horses - how people and race horses can be brilliant in training but not able to perform in public.

Tom in for Nick and joined by the Racing Post's Jonathan Harding. We speak initially to trainer Gordon Elliott who gives us the full debrief upon his Cheltenham Festival before looking ahead to Aintree and to his chances of being crowned Irish Champion trainer. Kieran Shoemark is along to look ahead to three rides at next week's Dubai World Cup and to the new flat turf season in the UK. Nick has an update from the BHA's CEO Brant Dunshea on a new cross-industry Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy. Ruth Jefferson looks ahead to a big weekend up north and we have Ben Atkins with us to talk all things pointing in association with the Tattersalls Cheltenham sale.

Tom in for Nick and joined by the Racing Post's Jonathan Harding. We speak initially to trainer Gordon Elliott who gives us the full debrief upon his Cheltenham Festival before looking ahead to Aintree and to his chances of being crowned Irish Champion trainer. Kieran Shoemark is along to look ahead to three rides at next week's Dubai World Cup and to the new flat turf season in the UK. Nick has an update from the BHA's CEO Brant Dunshea on a new cross-industry Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy. Ruth Jefferson looks ahead to a big weekend up north and we have Ben Atkins with us to talk all things pointing in association with the Tattersalls Cheltenham sale.

Charlotte Greenway in for Nick today and joined by RTE's Jane Mangan. They look back on Cheltenham and pick out some of the key moments whilst also hearing from successful trainers AJ O'Neill and Padraig Roche on where there Festival successors might head next. Jane give her view on Nick Rockett's prep run for the National and runs through the list of jockeys who are set to miss a number of days at Aintree through whip bans picked up at Cheltenham. Jane then recounts her trip to Ballydoyle and nominates the horse made the biggest impression before we have bad news from the greyhound world, along with a statement from GBGB's CEO Mark Bird. It's Wednesday so we wrap up by heading off to Hong Kong for an update from JA McGrath.

Charlotte Greenway in for Nick today and joined by RTE's Jane Mangan. They look back on Cheltenham and pick out some of the key moments whilst also hearing from successful trainers AJ O'Neill and Padraig Roche on where there Festival successors might head next. Jane give her view on Nick Rockett's prep run for the National and runs through the list of jockeys who are set to miss a number of days at Aintree through whip bans picked up at Cheltenham. Jane then recounts her trip to Ballydoyle and nominates the horse made the biggest impression before we have bad news from the greyhound world, along with a statement from GBGB's CEO Mark Bird. It's Wednesday so we wrap up by heading off to Hong Kong for an update from JA McGrath.

On the Monday post the Cheltenham Festival Nick is joined by Lee Mottershead to reflect on the four days but first up they address the news that The Jockey Club have entered a 20 year deal with catering partner Compass Group's Levy, resulting in a £100 million payment. Nick and Lee look at where this money might be put to good use including at Aintree and also looking at the significance of Sandown not seemingly receiving any of this investment. Back to Cheltenham, Dan Skelton reflects on his week with two winners and some nice prospects for the future whilst outlining likely plans for stable stars The New Lion, Mydaddypaddy, Grey Dawning etc. before Josh Stacey has the reaction from the winners enclosure after Gaelic Warrior's demolition job in Friday's Gold Cup. Jane Mangan is at Ballydoyle for their press morning and has the latest from there in an interview with Aidan O'Brien and finally, Sebastian Hutch of Inglis looks ahead to their Easter Sale coming up later this month.

On the Monday post the Cheltenham Festival Nick is joined by Lee Mottershead to reflect on the four days but first up they address the news that The Jockey Club have entered a 20 year deal with catering partner Compass Group's Levy, resulting in a £100 million payment. Nick and Lee look at where this money might be put to good use including at Aintree and also looking at the significance of Sandown not seemingly receiving any of this investment. Back to Cheltenham, Dan Skelton reflects on his week with two winners and some nice prospects for the future whilst outlining likely plans for stable stars The New Lion, Mydaddypaddy, Grey Dawning etc. before Josh Stacey has the reaction from the winners enclosure after Gaelic Warrior's demolition job in Friday's Gold Cup. Jane Mangan is at Ballydoyle for their press morning and has the latest from there in an interview with Aidan O'Brien and finally, Sebastian Hutch of Inglis looks ahead to their Easter Sale coming up later this month.

The Final Furlong Podcast Weekend Betting Guide is back. After landing five winners last Saturday and hitting 33/1, 11/4, 5/2, 9/4 and 5/6 in our Punchestown special, Emmet Kennedy is joined by Andy Newton, George Gorman and Peter Michael to break down Saturday's ITV Racing card with strong opinions, confident NAPs and big-price angles across Kempton, Lingfield, Newcastle and Fairyhouse. This is a deep dive into the races that matter — with clear betting positions and prices that stand out.

The Final Furlong Podcast Weekend Betting Guide is back, and this is a stacked Saturday across Ascot, Haydock and Wincanton. Emmet Kennedy is joined by Andy Newton, George Gorman and Peter Michael to preview every major ITV race, with strong opinions, big-priced handicaps and Grade 1 headliners.

The Final Furlong Podcast | Weekend Review & Cheltenham Festival Clues Emmet Kennedy is joined by Adam Mills, Jaime Wrenn, and Barry Doyle to break down a huge weekend of National Hunt racing packed with Cheltenham Festival contenders. From Arkle favourites to Supreme dark horses, Gold Cup questions to handicap plots, this is a proper race-by-race review of what actually matters for March.