LEGENDS. They are all legends.” No, he is not talking about the great racehorses who are enjoying an honourable retirement at the Irish National Stud, but rather referring to his classmates.

Con Marnane is a graduate of the Irish National Stud Thoroughbred Management Course of 1981; 40 years ago this summer. When I express surprise that it was that long ago, wisecracking Con says, “sure Leo, I was born young!”