How did you get into racehorse ownership?

I met my husband Roy 22 years ago. He already owned Ballygallon Stud and I became involved in running the farm then.

What was your best day at the races and why?

Aragorn winning the Grade 1 Eddie Reed Handicap in Del Mar. He broke and still holds the track record.

What is the biggest drawback about being an owner?

The knocks and disappointments.

In your experience which racecourse in Ireland treats owners the best and why?

The Curragh

Flat or jumps? Which do you prefer and why?

Flat, that’s where our involvement is.

What qualities do you look for in a trainer?

Good horsemanship, honesty and success.

What improvements would you like to see to courses in Ireland for owners?

Better facilities, particularly better food.

How do you feel owners are treated when not having a winner?

Unless you win you don’t get recognised and that’s worldwide not just in Ireland.

What significance do your colours hold?

They represent Ballygallon.

When buying a horse what do you look for?

Pedigree, conformation, athleticism and temperament.

What horses do you currently have in training?

Ten with Johnny Murtagh and three with Mick Halford. We recently moved all our horses in training in France back to Ireland.

What’s next on the agenda for your horses?

Hopefully runners on Champions Weekend

Have you any horses to look forward to?

An exciting group of yearlings and two-year-olds.

What would help to make Irish racing more competitive for the smaller owner/trainer?

More sales races.

What advice would you give to someone thinking of becoming a racehorse owner?

Be realistic and enjoy the good times.

Belinda Strudwick was in conversation with Olivia Hamilton

The Association of Irish Racehorse Owners (AIRO) have secured agreement with the Association of Irish Racecourses for free admission to 107 race meetings in 2016 for owners who currently have a horse in training.

Details of the meetings are posted on www.irishracehorseowners.com and will also be listed in the new AIRO magazine.which will be sent to all members