BRITAIN’S champion apprentice Billy Loughnane and his father Mark will be cheering on Thurles Sarsfields from afar in tomorrow’s Tipperary Senior Hurling Final at Semple Stadium.

Billy may have lived in England most of his 17 years but he was born in Tipperary and recalls going to a few matches in Semple Stadium as a child.

Hurling’s loss is racing’s gain as Billy continues to break modern day records on the racetrack. Incredibly, Billy only had his first ride 12 months ago but still managed to win the all-weather championship last winter.

He started the turf season by winning the Brocklesby at Doncaster, rode out his claim by September and won the apprentice title on turf by a comfortable margin.

Billy was crowned champion at Ascot last Saturday on what was an unforgettable day for the Loughnane family. Speaking from Tattersalls this week, Mark Loughnane said: “It was probably the best day we ever had. We were entertained in a box all day and Billy got to meet Steve Cauthen.

“Obviously Billy was not even born when Steve was riding but Billy is very inquisitive and researched Steve’s career. They had a great chat and Steve gave him plenty of advice.”

As a 17-year-old in 1977 Steve (“The Kentucky Kid”) rode 487 winners and won $6 million in prize money, so Billy still has a bit to do to match him!

Billy told us he definitely identifies as Irish and reminded us he rode for Ireland in this year’s Racing League. However, he has yet to ride on an Irish racecourse. Which one will be the first to get him?

His dad said: “I’m hoping Billy will ride a few for me in Galway next year. That might scare the life out of him!”