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The Saturday Edition - Ep. 159 by Nick Luck
Charlotte Greenway in for Nick and joined by the Mirror's David Yates as they reflect on a fantastic Aintree Grand National Festival and the big race itself on which we hear from winning rider Patrick Mullins along with the owner Nick Rockett, Stewart Andrew. Both discuss the emotions of the day and the continuing celebrations whilst Jamie Osbourne is along to look back on the agonising defeat suffered by Heart of Honour in the UAE Derby before we cover the retirement announcements from the weekend with Hayley Turner's long time agent Guy Jewell and jockey Alan Johns who went out with a winner yesterday at Ffos Las.
Josh Stacey in for Nick today and begins by reflecting on the sad news that came through this morning regarding Grand National runner Celebre D'Allen who sadly passed away last night after taking a sudden downturn. James Given, BHA's Director of Equine Health and Welfare joins the show to reflect on events that took place with this horse from the moment he collapsed while James also explains the stringent measures that the BHA have in place before a horse can even line up. Timeform's Dan Barber looks at the figures of the race and assesses how it stacks up against previous renewals. David Power Jockey's Cup winner Harry Skelton pops in to discuss that 500k prize as well as the final couple of weeks of the trainers' title and what Dan has up his sleeve to curtail Willie Mullins's late bid. Christian Williams looks back on his winner on Saturday in Liverpool before this week's Weatherbys Bloodstock segment takes us to South Africa as we hear from Eugene Freeman of Boland Stud.
The Nick Luck Daily Podcast comes to you Live from Aintree on Day 1 of the Grand National Festival and once again Nick is in amongst it with Jane Mangan as the horses are out stretching their legs. Mary Mangan has just watched Spillane's Tower out on track and share her hopes for him in this afternoon's Aintree Bowl before ITV's Alice Plunkett drops in to chat about what makes this place so special. Whilst out picking grass, Paul Gilligan and Buddy One join the show and look at whether this admirable horse can go one better than he did in the Liverpool Hurdle last year. Rob Hogarth is out on track fulfilling ITV media commitments but has time to have a quick word on Ahoy Señor and he's extremely bullish about his chances against Spillane's Tower. Then Gavin Cromwell shares his hopes for his three in the National, all of which are very prominent in the market, before Patrick Mullins runs through some of Willie's contenders this week including Lossiemouth today and Gaelic Warrior who he rides in the Bowl this afternoon.
Charlotte Greenway filling in for Nick and joined by Timeform's Dan Barber to look ahead to the action from Aintree, kicking off tomorrow. Dan and Charlotte take a deep dive into Friday's declarations and pick out a couple of eye catchers as well as those that have something to prove. Charlotte also gets the low down on Hewick from Shark Hanlon ahead of his National bid whilst Max McNeill discusses his exciting Aintree team, including his two in the big one. Ben Atkins joins for our weekly P2P segment ahead of tomorrow's Foxhunters at Aintree with reflection on yesterday's Hunter Chase sponsored by the podcast on which Olive Nicholls shares her delight after victory aboard Viroflay. Finally, off to Dubai where JA McGrath is in situ and has news of the Hong Kong runners as well as a catch up with James McDonald on his mounts.
Ahead of Aintree, Charlotte Greenway brings you a bonus episode as she catches up with trainer Nicky Henderson to run though some of his biggest chances over the three days in the Grade 1s and handicaps including: Constitution Hill, Jonbon, Lulamba, Jango Baie, Hyland, Chantry House, Excello, Fantastic Lady, Impose Toi & Jeriko du Reponet.
Nick is joined by Racing Post senior writer Lee Mottershead to discuss the latest from around the racing world. They begin with the latest Grand National news, with Johnny Burke discussing how he went from without a ride to being offered two in the space of an afternoon. Sean Bowen shares his excitement at picking up the ride on Three Card Brag, while this year's Clerk Jon Pullin gives us a going and watering update. William Haggas delights in another Australian Group One with Dubai Honour at Rosehill, while RSN's Michael Felgate discusses the bitter divisions within the ATC over the proposed sale of the historic track. Dual Grand National hero Tiger Roll's breeder Jerry O'Brien is a brilliant bloodstock guest this week, courtesy of Weatherbys.
Nick is joined by Mirror man David Yates to look at the day's racing news. They start with the appointment of ex-Ladbrokes and Reach PLC boss Jim Mullen to be Group CEO at the Jockey Club. The news is welcomed on the podcast by RMG Chief Exec Nick Mills. Also on today's show, trainer Sandy Thomson expresses reservations at the process by which Mr Incredible was an enforced scratch from the Grand National, while Ben Pauling looks forward to running Twig, who has just scraped in, and Keith Donoghue explains the reason for blinkers on favourite Stumptown. Plus, Liam Mullen catches up in Dubai with jockey Tadgh O'Shea about his decision to partner Laurel River in the World Cup this Saturday. Closer to home, Cornelius Lysaght is debriefed by Molly after her excellent second on the pod pointer Baunmore Jet at Maisemore yesterday, while - across the pond - NBC's Matt Bernier runs the rule over the key Kentucky Derby preps at the weekend.
Nick is joined by Lydia Hislop for today's tour of the horse racing world. Kicking off with the Grand National, Sam Twiston-Davies reveals why he has chosen to ride Beauport in the big race. Nick and Lydia also reflect on the absence of L'Homme Presse and touch on one or two who perhaps shouldn't be running. Coolmore Australia's Tom Magnier joins the show to discuss the shuttling of City of Troy, while jockey David Egan looks ahead to a potential piece of history on Lincoln day, while his weighing room colleague Richard Kingscote reflects on a superb treble at Sha Tin in Hong Kong yesterday. Newbury's George Hill tells Nick about significant prize money increases this season, plus BHA Director of Equine Science and Welfare James Given draws today's show to a close with an in-depth look at new anti-doping protocols and their potential impact.
Joshua Stacey is joined by RTV analyst Dan Overall for a packed episode. First up, Henry de Bromhead reflects on Bob Olinger and Air Of Entitlement's Cheltenham Festival victories before discussing his Aintree runners. Lucinda Russell shares her Aintree plans, including updates on Myretown, Ahoy Senor, and Derryhassen Paddy. Richard Phillips provides the latest on Idas Boy, while Rebecca Curtis navigates a jockey dilemma with Irish Grand National favourite Haiti Couleurs. Joe Tizzard outlines his Aintree team, and Jim McGrath brings us the latest from the Hong Kong racing scene.
Nick is joined by RTE and RTV analyst Jane Mangan. First today, owner Jon Shack on the sale of Emily Upjohn to Japan, via a date with Flightline. Plus, Richard Brown on Wathnan's strong hand for the Lincoln, Dan Barber on the history of the Timeform double squiggle and Mr Incredible, Ben Atkins arrives early with the Pointing Update, and Burgage Stud's Victor Connolly is back in the Weatherbys Bloodstock hotseat. Plus, Nick and Jane with all the latest on BHA's anti-doping measures.
Nick is joined by Mirror man David Yates to canter through the day's racing headlines from around the globe. First up, RTE and RTV's Jane Mangan reports from Aidan O'Brien's press morning, which has cast doubt on the participation of star 2yos The Lion in Winter and Lake Victoria in their respective Newmarket Guineas. Also today, with the Lincoln kicking off the Flat Turf season in the UK this weekend, Nick talks to owner Gary Robinson, whose Classic-placed Galeron is back from a spell in Australia and raring to go, while trainer Gay Kelleway looks for a big weekend with runners in the Brocklesby at Doncaster and in Kempton's Queen's Prize. Continuing our build up to Aintree, jockey Nick Schofield - twice placed in the race - shares his excitement at riding Monbeg Genius this year, while David Maxwell has a good team bound for Liverpool, and tells Nick that Joker de Mai has a good chance of giving him his elusive Foxhunters' winner. Further afield, Yulong's Vin Cox reflects on yet another top-level win for Via Sistina, while Coolmore's Mick Flanagan revels in the sale of Hong Kong Derby winner Cap Ferrat, whose win broke the horse's maiden tag at the seventeenth time of asking.
Nick is joined by ITV presenter Rishi Persad to discuss the latest from around the racing world. First up today, Golden Horn owner Jayne McGivern shares her delight at the stallion's stellar Festival, while underlining his utility for ALL breeders. She has some typically robust views on Breeding in general plus the mares' NH program. Also on the show today, with news that Laurel River misses the Dubai World Cup, Nick talks to Ryan Tongue of Deva Racing, owners of stablemate Imperial Emperor, who could yet deliver a fairytale result. On which note, Newmarket trainer Michael Keady is dreaming of Grand National glory with recent acquisition Horantzau d'Airy, while Clive Cox takes aim at big International prizes with Ghostwriter and JA McGrath has the latest Hong Kong news ahead of their Derby Day this weekend.
Nick is joined by Lee Mottershead for a round up of today's racing headlines. Gavin Cromwell first, with news that his Gold Cup hero Inothewayurthinkin will miss the Grand National. Mouse Morris has a similar tale to tell regarding third placed finisher Gentlemansgame, while Paul Nichollls reveals riding plans of his quintet, including Bryony Frost on Stay Away Fay. Also on today's show, Timeform's Dan Barber with a note on Willie Mullins's County Hurdle domination, plus Joe Pagan and Polly Bonnor are back with a look at how trainers can stop horses 'tying-up' with careful management and nutrition, while Fearghal Hogan talks to Nick about bringing Laws of Indices back from Australia to stand in Ireland as we go around the Bloodstock World with Weatherbys.
Nick is joined by Jane Mangan to reflect on the final moments of the Cheltenham Festival and to look ahead. Today, they are joined by Henry de Bromhead, with a lengthy debrief on his Cheltenham runners and plans for Aintree, Punchestown and beyond. Plus, Sean Graham, with a bold route ahead for Triumph Hurdle shocker Poniros and news on Energumene. Cotswolds hotelier and publican Nathan Eades joins the show to discuss the impact and cause of falling Festival crowds, while rookie trainer Stephen Thorne talks about his remarkable start following another milestone at the Curragh yesterday.
Nick is at Cheltenham ahead of St Patrick's Thursday... today's runaround, in the company of Rishi Persad, features contributions from Barry Geraghty, Ruby Walsh, Patrick Mullins, Neil Phillips, Niall Hannity, David Yates, plus artist-in-residence Liz Armstrong.
Coming to you live from Cheltenham on Day Two of the Festival, Nick is joined by Lee Mottershead for reflections on a truly unusual first afternoon and to look ahead to the rest of the week. With contributions from Harry Skelton, Harry Cobden, Richard Johnson, JJ Slevin, Gary O'Brien, Hayley Moore, Jon Pullin and Neil Phillips.
This was supposed to be a conversation with Nick Luck about the next wave of MCU films. However, I have no idea what went down; it is just me. Still a great show but no Nick,
Nick is joined by Mirror journalist David Yates for this specially extended edition of the podcast for the eve of the Cheltenham Festival 2025. First up, Kopek des Bordes owner Charlie McCarthy reveals that he had surgery for kidney cancer just days ago, but is fully intending to be at Cheltenham to see his hot favourite for the Festival curtain raiser.With news that Lossiemouth goes Mares' Hurdle and Golden Ace takes the Champion Hurdle route, Nick catches up with the latter's owner Ian Gosden, while David Yates and Joe Chambers, manager to Lossiemouth's owners Rich and Susannah Ricci, engage in a spirited debate about the way in which the news of her participation has been handled in recent weeks.In conjunction with Weatherbys, leading pinhooker and consignor John Bleahen tell the story of how he bought and sold Brighterdaysahead and looks ahead to a huge team of stars representing his family's interests in the coming days.Plus, Robbie Power outlines the importance of this Festival to the Tattersalls Ireland Derby sale, plus gives his pick of the De Bromhead and Robcour runners.Meanwhile, Nick talks at length to Lucinda Russell and Peter Scudamore as they aim to add to their Festival tally with several runners through the week.One not to be missed.
Charlotte Greenway who's in for Nick today is joined by RTV's Jane Mangan and there's plenty of Cheltenham Festival chat coming your way. First up we hear from Dan Skelton on his Cheltenham team that includes Langer Dan, Protektorat & The New Lion, before Nick catches up with Derek O'Connor on his Festival rides as well as the favourite in today's Nick Luck Daily Podcast Pointing Pointers Hunter Chase at Catterick. We also hear from Terence O'Brien on Jane's fancy in the new novice's handicap chase on the Thursday. Jane shares some insight she's picked up along the road during Cheltenham Festival preview season and discusses the potential significance of Coolmore's Walk In The Park winner in France yesterday. Finally, we have news from Bahrain and Hong Kong with Ed Veale and JA McGrath.
Nick is joined by David Yates a week out from the Cheltenham Festival. Trainer Fergal O'Brien joins the show to reveal that Sixmilebridge has failed a dope test that will see him DQ'd from his Trials Day win. He also explains the reason for the failure and seeks to reassure the public ahead of next week. Also today, owner Bryan Drew discusses the options for Final Demand, not ruling out the Albert Bartlett, while Romeo Coolio breeder Will Kinsey joins the show and also has news of the Cheltenham Bloodstock preview. Plus, Dan Barber with the Timeform perspective, and Joe Grimwade, consultant to the TBA, with news of the Stud Employee Accident Benefit Scheme.
Joshua Stacey in for Nick today and joined by the RacingTV's Dan Overall. First off, they reflect on Gordon Elliott's decison to run Brighterdaysahead against Constitution Hill in the Champion Hurdle. Will the Champion Hurdle and Mares' Hurdle feel knock-on effects? James Owen reveals Burdett Road's festival aim and provides an update on Triumph Hurdle favourite, East India Dock. Fresh off the back of Newbury on Saturday, Olly Murphy caught up with Josh to discuss THAT ride from Sean Bowen aboard Booster Bob in the Greatwood Gold Cup on Saturday before outlining Cheltenham Festival and Aintree plans for his team. Finally, Paul Nolan looks set to bring over a good-sized squad to Gloucestershire next week, with Feet Of A Dancer and An Peann Dearg his leading lights. Just what would a festival winner mean to the Enniscorthy-based trainer?
Nick is joined by broadcaster Rishi Persad to discuss the latest from around the racing world. Today, they nose on the Cheltenham handicap weights before moving on to taking in the news that Coolmore have sent several young horses by Walk in the Park to Noel George and Amanda Zetterholm in an effort to find a stallion successor. Amanda joins the show. Plus, Ralph Beckett runs the rule over his astonishing dozen still in the 2025 Derby at the latest entry stage. GBR Welfare Comms Lead Gabi Whitfield tells us about the the HorsePWR campaign going up several notches in advance of the Spring Festivals, while Ben is here a day early with the Pointing and Jim McGrath has the latest from Hong Kong.
Nick is joined by RTE and Racing TV host Jane Mangan to discuss the latest from around the racing world. Charlotte has been on hand this morning at Kempton to watch Constitution Hill and stablemates at work: she gives her report and catches up with Nicky Henderson, who also shares his delight at the Godolphin TIEA win of team member Simone Meloni. We hear from the winner in conversation with awards host Rishi Persad. Meanwhile, trainer Michael Hourigan tells Nick why the time is right to stop, and Cathal Mariga has the lowdown on Albert Bartlett fancy The Big Westerner. Later in the show, Paul Ferguson has news of his newly published Weatherbys Festival Betting Guide (offer code NLCFBG25 weatherbysshop.co.uk, and Dan Barber reacts to the Saudi Cup and the Sam Thomas big race form spike through the Timeform prism.
Charlotte Greenway in for Nick today and joined by the Mirror's David Yates. First off, they reflect on Forever Young's victory in the Saudi Cup and hear from Christophe Lemaire, who had a winner on the night, and also gives his thoughts on the big race before getting the figures from TPD's Adam Mills. Then, switching codes Fergal O'Brien discusses his impressive Dovecote winner Tripoli Flyer and shares the likelihood of him turning up at Cheltenham in the Supreme. Then with Cheltenham in mind, Charlotte speaks to Noel George to see which way they are leaning with regards to Il Est Francais and gets an update on his fancied runner in the Fred Winter. Finally, Rachel King joins from Japan, fresh off the back of her Grade One victory, in which she became the first female jockey to score at the highest level in Japan.
Nick is joined by ITV and Sky broadcaster Matt Chapman to take a Friday canter around the racing world. Guests today include Michael Buckley, who is relaxed in conversation with Nick as Constitution Hill begins his build up towards regaining his Champion Hurdle crown. Also on today's show, ARC Regional Director Phil Bell - responsible for two of the Welsh racecourses - offers reassurance as regards relations with the Senedd on the back of the proposed greyhound ban. Plus, in Riyadh, Nick talks to Kenny McPeek about Saudi Cup hopeful Rattle 'N Roll as well as his likely Epsom Derby contender, plans to bring Kentucky Derby hero Mystik Dan to Royal Ascot, and the reappearance of Thorpedo Anna. Naohiro Goda has the lowdown on the Japanese challenge, while HBA's Frank Sale spins through TV options for the worldwide audience. Nick and Matt also have plenty of chat on the UK action this weekend.
Nick is joined by award-winning Racing Post writer Jonathan Harding to discuss today's racing news. The day after Michael O'Sullivan's funeral, Davy Russell joins the show to reflect upon a day of great sorrow and real strength on the part of the racing community.Also on today's show: the death of Delta Work, aged 12; the two star Seven Barrows juveniles not appearing at Kempton this weekend; the small increase in prize money contributions over the next year. Plus, Sam Thomas talks through a strong squad for the weekend. In Riyadh, Tom Stanley joins Nick to preview the Saudi Cup in the company of Team Valor President Fred Heyman (Facteur Cheval) and Scott Turner, owner of Witness Stand.Ben and Molly are back with their Point to Point review.
Nick is joined by Daily Mirror's David Yates to discuss the latest from the racing world. They lead today with the news that the Welsh Senedd has put the wheels in motion to ban greyhound racing. In the company of Evoke Chief Strategy Officer Vaughan Lewis, a greyhound owner and Welshman, they consider how seriously this should be taken as a threat by the horse racing industry in Wales and beyond. Also on today's show, trainer Gary Moore tells Nick hoe he plans to get the maximum from Mondo Man ahead of this weekend's Adonis hurdle, plus has a plan for his beloved Goshen. In Riyadh, Nick catches up with Dan Blacker, trainer of Breeders' Cup Sprint hero Straight No Chaser, while trainer Yoshi Hashida fills us in on his representative plus the abortive mission to bring a horse from Japan to the Cheltenham Festival. JA McGrath has his weekly bulletin from Hong Kong.
Nick is joined by Racing Post senior writer, Lee Mottershead to discuss the news and events from around the horse racing world. First up today, York's head of sponsorship and marketing James Brennan shares the racecourse's delight at the City of York Stakes finally achieving Group 1 status after many years of campaigning. Also on today's show, co-trainer Josh Guerriero discusses the options for Iroko who is by no means a certain runner in this weekend's feature Ladbrokes Chase at Kempton Park due to drying ground conditions and also has news of other promising youngsters in the yard. Pro-punter, owner and Raceshare syndicate founder Patrick Veitch shares his delight at real Triumph Hurdle prospect Gibbs Island, who won the Victor Ludorum hurdle at Haydock. Veitch also shares his views on recent pronouncements from racing supporting MPs on the separation of racing and gaming wallets. Plus, Kieran Clark has this week's Timeform perspective and Herman Brown jnr, once a leading trainer in South Africa, tells Nick about how much he is looking forward to his second incarnation with a licence in our Weatherby's supported bloodstock slot.
Nick is joined by RTE and Racing TV broadcaster Jane Mangan to reflect on the life of Michael O'Sullivan, the hugely promising talent who died at 24 on Sunday morning. They are joined at some length by Ken Whelan, the former jockey who acted as agent and mentor to Michael, and who has been close to Michael's family through his final days.Also on today's show, Nick and Jane are joined by Adrien Cugnasse to discuss developments at Haras le Fresnay since its acquisition by Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Mansour, and to document an extraordinary sequence of events in Doha, including the shock return of Pierre Charles Boudot.They also look back on the action from Ascot and Wincanton at the weekend.
Nick is joined by RTE and Racing TV broadcaster Jane Mangan for today's horse racing news and views. In today's episode, Neil Channing pays a lengthy and heartfelt tribute to his friend Joe Saumarez Smith, BHA Chair, who has died aged 53. Also on this show, Nick and Jane reflect on yesterday's Randox Grand National launch, with contributions from Paul Nicholls, Ruby Walsh and Martin Greenwood (all talking to Niall Hannity), plus Nick catches up with trainer Richard Phillips, whose Ida's Boy is guaranteed a run. Later in the episode, JA McGrath recaps a tumultuous week in Hong Kong, while Nick talks to one of the newly licensed riders, Richard Kingscote.
Nick is joined by Racing Post senior writer Lee Mottershead to discuss the latest from around the racing world. On today's show - with Pic d'Orhy aiming to give him a first Grade One in a year - Paul Nicholls has fire in his belly as he assesses the strength of his team, new arrangements for sourcing his horses, and his competitive spirit being fuelled by "mini-me" Dan Skelton. Compelling stuff. Equally compelling is the interview with James McDonald about Romantic Warrior's bid to win the Saudi Cup. Plus, Godolphin's Alex Merriam on Rebel's Romance and the Amir Sword, QREC handicapper Neil Jennings on this weekend's action, and Guillermo Arrizkoreta - Spain's leading trainer - on conquering Dubai.
Nick is joined by David Yates to canter through today's racing headlines as Sir Gino is ruled out for the remainder of the season with his infection having invaded his hind leg ligaments. Also on today's show, Emmet Mullins toys with the idea of this weekend's Ascot Chase for Corbetts Cross, while James Owen discuses Burdett Road ahead of the Kingwell, and lines up a host of other Cheltenham possibles, including Allmankind for the Hunters' Chase. Sam and Nigel Twiston Davies offer alternative perspectives on another successful weekend, while Zac Purton tells Nick about his horror fall at the weekend at Sha Tin, and his likely recovery time.
Nick is joined by award winning Racing Post writer Jonathan Harding to discuss the latest from around the racing world. After a further update on the Sir Gino situation, Nick is joined by Liverpool Walton MP Dan Carden to reflect on his contribution to the Westminster Hall Gambling Debate last week, and his views on how racing positions itself in the current regulatory landscape. Also on today's show, Philip Hobbs reflects on a solidly productive campaign as he sends out Lowry's Bar to contest the Reynoldstown at Ascot this weekend. Trainer Harry Charlton joins Nick to look ahead to this weekend's Amir's Trophy with recent Wathnan acquisition King's Gambit, and has news on returning potential stable stars Hand of God and Cosmic Year, while National Stud GM Joe Bradley outlines the pioneering stallion deal that he hopes will fill the book for Rajasinghe.
Nick is joined by RTE and Racing TV broadcaster Jane Mangan to discuss the latest from around the racing world. James Fanshawe is first up today, revealing that he wasn't surprised by the removal of Derby runner-up Ambiente Friendly from his stable. Furthermore, he issues a positive bulletin on the wellbeing of star sprinter Kind of Blue. Plus, Jimmy Mangan is along with an outline plan of Spillane's Tower's campaign, while RCA boss David Armstrong talks Commercial partnerships and gives a guide as to how the sport's new marketing arm might work. Kieran Lalor of Al Shir'aa is this week's Weatherbys Bloodstock Guest, while Ben is along with all the week's Pointing news.
A tribute to HH the Aga Khan, one of the greatest owner-breeders in the sport's history, with contributions from Brough Scott, Lee Mottershead, Alain and Gisele de Royer Dupre, Adrien Cugnasse, Dermot Weld and Gerald Mosse.
Nick is joined by Lydia Hislop for today's news and views from the racing world. Guests today include Joseph O'Brien, with news on Banbridge, Solness and more, Timeform's Billy Nash on the DRF Novices, and Fitzdares' Orlando Meyrick on the market impact. Also today, the Tote's Corporate Affairs Director Susannah Gill defends the organisation's playing into its own placepot pools, while trainer Amy Murphy explains her move to France and NTF CEO Paul Johnson outlines the cooperation commitment between the RCA and the Thoroughbred Group.
Nick is joined by David Yates to reflect on an absorbing edition of the Dublin Racing Festival. Guests today include Nicky Henderson, who analyses the performances of the DRF stars with relation to his own "Big Four" and how that affects their chances at Cheltenham. He also looks ahead to Sir Gino and his William Hill hurdle entries at Newbury this weekend. Plus, Kopek des Bordes owner Charlie McCarthy and Gordon Elliott, who explains why Gerri Colombe is out for the season, and takes positives out of his lighter team in Dublin.
Nick is joined by RTE and Racing TV broadcaster Jane Mangan to discuss the latest from around the racing world on the eve of the Dublin Racing Festival. After the last minute jockey shenanigans ahead of the Irish Champion Hurdle, they reflect on the various choices made. Joining the show today is trainer Declan Queally, with a tidy select hand at the DRF, including in two Grade Ones. Plus, Harry Derham on his three-country weekend, Paul Nicholls pays tribute to John Hales, who has died aged 85, and Ben Linfoot has something for the weekend from SportingLife.com.
Nick is joined by Daily Mirror Newsboy David Yates to canter through the day's racing news with an eye firmly on the Dublin Racing Festival. Double Green retained rider JJ Slevin joins the show outside El Fabiolo's stable at Closutton, from where he issues a positive bulletin ahead of the horse's return this weekend. He also discusses his other key ride Impaire et Passe, while David Manasseh - owner of that horse's key rival Ballyburn - takes time out from the football transfer window to share his feeling's about an even more important sporting occasion. Barry Connell - owner/trainer of Marine Nationale - considers the likelihood of felling the Mullins big two, while Ben Pauling drops in with an update on The Jukebox Man's surgery and Handstands' bid to win the Scilly Isles at Sandown.
Nick is joined by Racing Post writer Jonathan Harding to canter through today's racing news. NTF Chief Executive Paul Johnson has the final word on this week's PRA drama and the U-turn on trainer interviews. Also on the show, Paul Nicholls on his bumper Grand National entry plus news on Stage Star, Ginny's Destiny, Kalif du Berlais and Caldwell Potter. Gearoid O'Loughlin tells Nick about taking on the might of Willie Mullins with the giant Jeannot Lapin at the DRF, while Ben and Molly are back with more from the Pointing field.
Nick is joined by Racing Post senior writer Lee Mottershead to look at today's racing news. With the row continuing to brew over the PRA and their demand for payment from broadcasters for trainer interviews, Nick and Lee share details of the email sent by the PRA to trainers detailing their prime motivation for the request. Nick also gets comment from RMG on why jockeys are paid an annual sum for similar services. PRA board member Stuart Williams gives his reaction to the weekend's fallout and seeks to underline the central aims of the PRA, while NTF council member Jamie Snowden echoes the position of the Thoroughbred Group. Also on today's show, Timeform's Dan Barber gives perspective to the performance of East India Dock at the weekend, Lee looks ahead to the Dublin Racing Festival, while Gestut Lunzen's Nicolas Schenke and Tommy Witt are this week's Weatherbys Bloodstock Guests.
Nick is joined by Lydia Hislop to discuss the latest from around the racing world after a turbulent weekend. They are joined by Peter Savill and Ralph Beckett, on opposing sides of the argument over the idea that racecourses should pay trainers for TV interviews. Lydia dissects the arguments, before going onto discuss the running and riding enquiries that were another feature of the weekend's racing, concerning Iroko, Delta Work and Owl of Athens. They unravel all the key performances from Trials' Day, with Fergal O'Brien joining the show regarding Sixmilebridge and Crambo, plus news on Dysart Enos. Meanwhile, Willie Carson shares his joy at having bred Ameerat Alzaman, the impressive winner of the Saudi 1,000 Guineas.
Nick is joined by RTE and Racing TV broadcaster Jane Mangan for a look at what's happening around the racing world. Jane reports on her key takeaways from Willie Mullins's press morning ahead of the Dublin Racing Festival, while Nick talks to Gigginstown's Eddie O'Leary about Brighterdaysahead's next moves. Also on today's show, Warren Greatrex has high hopes for two of his key players at the DRF and Cheltenham this Saturday. Today's feature interview is with record breaking Hong Kong star Zac Purton, while trainer Saffie Joseph shares his delight at having White Abarrio back in his barn ahead of this weekend's Pegasus World Cup.
Nick is joined by ITV Racing presenter Oli Bell to discuss the latest headlines from around the racing world. They are joined first today by prominent jumps breeder and stallion owner Simon Davies, who announces that he has taken his prime stock to continue his business in France, hot on the heels of the Racing Post story chronicling the similar exit of owner Bryan Drew. Following on from this, trainer Jane Williams explains why she was only too happy to go against the grain to pick up bargain foals at Goffs UK yesterday. She also has good news of son Chester and a new arrival to the family. Later in the show, Charlotte reports from the Longines World's Best Racehorse ceremony in London, where City of Troy and Laurel River shared top billing. She catches up with trainers Aidan O'Brien and Bhupat Seemar, plus York CEO William Derby. James Willoughby casts a critical eye over the final list. Meanwhile, JA McGrath has his regular update from Hong Kong, and Ben Atkins is along day early with his Pointing news.
In the latest in our series of in depth 1-2-1s with US racing leaders, 1/ST Racing President Aidan Butler talks to Nick about the future for the entity's major racetracks and his vision for the sport. This interview comes amidst last week's media reports of Gulfstream's possible closure and the continuing turbulence in California racing. Butler also looks forward to this weekend's Pegasus and shares his pragmatic view on what must be done to ensure the sport's sustainability and viability in a competitive leisure and gaming market.
Nick is joined by Racing Post senior writer Lee Mottershead to canter through this week's racing news. Guests today include Irish Champion jockey Jack Kennedy, who updates Nick on his progress as he recovers from yet another broken leg. Also on today's show, a lengthy chat with multiple Classic winning trainer Jim Bolger, who outlines his own plans for consolidation and eventual retirement, but not before he has unleashed some exciting prospects on this season's biggest races. Plus, Tom Magnier on the Magic Millions record breaking sales topper by first season sire Home Affairs, Dave Ord on the return of Salvator Mundi, and Dubai Racing Club farrier Julien Daublain on shoeing some of the world's best as they converge on the desert.
Nick is joined by Jane Mangan for a look at today's racing news. Today's guests include Nicky Henderson, who offers a slightly different appraisal of Triumph Hurdle Talking Horse Lulamba ahead of his Kempton debut. He also has news of fellow juvenile Palladium, while trainer Ben Pauling considers the FFos Las option for Handstands and Personal Ambition ahead of their hastily staged Saturday card. Michelle Yu reports from fire ravaged Southern California, where the blaze is perilously close to Santa Anita. Meanwhile, on the Gold Coast, racing goes ahead as planned this Saturday, and Nick catches up with Channel 7 broadcaster Lizzie Jelfs, whose Race With Lizzie syndicate owns the favourite for the Magic Millions 2yo Classic. Ben Atkins is along with this week's point to point news.