Coolmore buys into Maximum Security

COOLMORE looks likely to have at least one runner in the first running of the $20 million Saudi Cup in February, having acquired a 50% stake in the four-year-old colt Maximum Security. Trained by Jason Servis, the son of New Year’s Day (by Street Cry) was first past the post in the Kentucky Derby but was disqualified for causing interference. He was an impressive winner of the Cigar Mile at Aqueduct last month. Maximum Security will stand at Ashford Stud when he retires.

Ivy Rothwell wins award

IVY Rothwell from Co Wexford has won the Connolly’s Red Mills The Irish Field Breeder of the Month competition for November. She bred Road To Respect, now a two-time winner of the Grade 1 Down Royal Champion Chase.

Senior stablestaff figure passes away

TONY Murray, former travelling head lad for trainer Gerry Keane, died peacefully on New Year’s Day in a nursing home in Kells, Co Meath. Evelyn Glynn, who worked alongside him in the Keane yard, said: “Tony was well known at the races and was a fountain of knowledge.

“He turned out horses to a high standard, whether it be at the Curragh on a high-class weekend or a mid-week meeting at a country track.” His death notice concluded with the words ‘Gone racing’.

Waterford awards

TRAINERS Henry de Bromhead and Declan Queally were honoured at the Park Hotel Waterford Sports Stars 2019 Gala Banquet last weekend. The overall award was won by local show jumper Peter Moloney.

Trainers honoured

PAUL Nicholls and Nicky Henderson both received an OBE in Britain’s New Year Honours list. Nicholls has been champion jumps trainer 11 times and Henderson has five titles.

ITM Stallion Trail filling up

THOSE wishing to visit Coolmore Stud during next weekend’s ITM Stallion Trail should move quickly to register on the ITM website. All the Saturday slots at Coolmore have been taken but registrations for Friday remain open. Coolmore is the only stud for which registration is required, due to high demand.