Ray Moore, originally from Dublin, is the owner of Hibernia Steel Products Ltd in Drogheda, Co Louth. His interest in racing developed from being brought to Laytown by his grandad some 50 years ago. He’s owned plenty of winners over the years, the most recent being the Pat Martin-trained Ishebayorgrey, who will be gunning for his hat-trick of wins later this week.

How did you get into racehorse ownership/How did you come to own your first horse?

My brother got involved in the syndicate which owned Magic Annemarie, trained by Pat Martin. I then got involved by purchasing a horse called River Hopper originally trained by Stephen Mahon but I transferred the horse to Pat Martin. He won at Ballinrobe on a very wet day in July 2001, and was ridden by a 17-year-old Cathy Gannon.

What was your best day at the races and why?

It was July 30th, 2013 when Footprint won a handicap under Andrew Thornton at Galway. To get into that race, we actually had to blag a pound off the handicapper. I was at the track that day along with a lot of my friends. I’d known my jockey Andrew for a long time, and I was delighted he was riding for me that day. We had a fantastic party that night! However, Footprint passed away about nine weeks ago. We were hoping to run him in a maiden hurdle at Tramore but he had a heart attack and dropped dead on the gallops.

What is the biggest drawback about being a racehorse owner?

The only drawback is the ongoing costs. The rest is the joy of the journey.

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

For me it’s always been Dundalk with Jim Martin, Emma Meehan and the rest of their team. It’s a terrific venue on a winter’s Friday evening. I would also have to mention Bellewstown and Galway, where there’s always a party atmosphere.

Flat or jump racing, which do you prefer and why?

I love both codes, leaning towards the flat in the summer and going back to National Hunt in the winter.

What qualities do you look for in a trainer?

I’ve had horses or shares of horses with 11 trainers in Ireland and four in Britain but I have found Pat Martin to be the best by a million miles. Pat has picked and recommended most of my horses for me, including Lucky Spring (a winner nine times), Footprint (won six) and Ishebayorgrey (four wins to date). Another great strength of Pat’s is that he welcomes your visits to the yard.

What improvements could be made to racing in Ireland?

I have seen gradual improvements, especially over the last six years. At long last, owners are being recognised as an important part of the industry. In the past, owner facilities were appalling, but they have improved. Also, as an owner, I’m now entitled to bring three pals to the races with me, whereas in the past, I could bring only one. We’re also getting all manner of informative emails these days. It’s lovely to be acknowledged.

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

It was nice to see in the owners/trainers lounge at Leopardstown that there was a complimentary meal and tea for owners. Hopefully this will be the benchmark for all racecourses.

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

Well, from a personal point of view I’m not expecting a pack of tissues when my horse loses. As any owner knows, you will have more disappointments than victories but the secret is to absolutely cherish the good days.

What significance do your colours hold?

Michael Holden and I picked my colours in 1997 - navy with an orange sash. We were looking for a colour that could be picked out easily. My colours were definitely commented on when Ishebayorgrey won in Dundalk on July 12th last.

When buying a horse, what do you look for?

Because of my strike rate with Pat Martin, I rely on him for recommendations.

What horses do you currently have in training?

As well as Ishebayorgrey, I’ve got Vote Of Confidence with Sandra Hughes, who is on the road to recovery after a few injuries, and an unnamed yearling out of Duke Of Marmalade.

What’s next on the agenda for Ishebayorgrey?

We were looking at Galway but it came around a bit quick for him. So now he’ll run this coming week in a three-year-old handicap at either Leopardstown or Sligo.

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

My advice would be get two or three friends involved and buy two horses, and give it at least a year. Perhaps give Pat Martin a ring, as he has been very lucky for me.

Ray Moore was in conversation with Joe Finegan

AIRO secured free admission on over 90 racedays in 2015 for registered owners with a horse in training.

Cork Monday, August 3rd

Cork Tuesday, August 4th

Curragh Sunday, August 9th

Downpatrick Sunday, August 9th