MARK Bird has taken up the role of handicapper with the Emirates Racing Authority for the winter months. He has been a handicapper with the Turf Club/IHRB for 20 years.

“When I started in 2002 Tadhg O’Shea was a 5lb claimer and now he is a multiple champion jockey in the UAE,” said Mark, who also notes that Pat Cosgrave, Sean Kirrane and Pat Dobbs are other Irishmen doing well in the area.

“We do have another Irish official – the starter Shane Ryan – who tells me he rode as a jump jockey, mainly for Reg Akehurst.

“The International Department. is currently looking for nominations for the Carnival so I would recommend that any Irish trainers who are interested to get in touch. It’s a good programme and a great track with excellent prize money, and the weather isn’t bad either!”