What drew you to racing and how did you start working at the yard?

I grew up around horses. My dad was a jockey and he trained for a time as well. It wasn’t uncommon for me to pick up a sales book or The Irish Field when I was supposed to be studying for school so it was a natural progression for me to work in a big yard. Mam is actually from Broadford, she grew up 10 minutes from where Gordon Elliott trains now so it seemed like a good fit for me.

Do you have a favourite horse in the yard and why?

When you work with them so closely every day it’s hard not to get attached, each one has their own character and personality but American Mike and Hollow Games are special. I’ve looked after them since they arrived into the yard and I’ve had some good days with them both. I am guilty of spoiling them though. They love their routines and getting out for a roll and let me know pretty quickly if I forget their daily carrots and apples.

Tell us about the horses you are leading up at Cheltenham, are they horses that you look after in the yard?

I’m very fortunate to manage a barn full of good horses, some with big chances next week Gerri Colombe, Ndaawi and The Yellow Clay. The four that I look after and lead up are Brighterdaysahead, American Mike, Croke Park and Hollow Games. It’s a big week for our barn.

What parts of the Cheltenham experience do you really enjoy and what are the most challenging parts for you?

There’s no place like Cheltenham, the buzz, the crowd, the cheer as the first race jumps off. You won’t find an atmosphere like that anywhere else. It’s a big build up as it’s a goal you are working towards all year and when one of your horses make it over, it’s a proud moment and very exciting. That being said, it’s a long week, with long and often emotional days full of highs and lows, worry, nerves and excitement. I have yet to lead up a winner at the Festival but with a bit of luck, Brighterdaysahead or American Mike might get me into the winner’s enclosure this year.

Are you superstitious before a race?

I like to think I’m not, but I suppose I wouldn’t ever risk wearing new boots. If I wear a headband leading up and that horse wins I might always wear that same headband with that horse. If something is working, why mess with it?

Do you get nervous watching your favourite horses running?

I would be be lying if I said that I didn’t get nervous. You work so hard every day to prepare the horses and get them to the track happy, healthy and ready for the job but once you let them go out of the parade ring, it’s out of your hands. There’s an added pressure on the bigger days with a favourite, but really you just hope that it all goes to plan and that the horses and jockeys come home safe and sound, anything more is a bonus.