THERE has been plenty spoken in recent times about a lack of depth at the highest level of Irish flat racing this year, as well as the growing theme of British-trained runners capturing major prizes on these shores.

Away from Aidan O’Brien’s A-listers - the likes of Auguste Rodin, City Of Troy and Kyprios - it does feel like we are in the middle of somewhat lean times for Ireland’s domestic team at the top end. News of Dermot Weld’s Oaks heroine Ezeliya being retired following a setback did no favours to the strength of that picture either.