IT is a well-worn adage that while it is far from essential, pedigree goes a long way with people as well as horses in the thoroughbred industry. That has been particularly emphasised over the years on the racing side, with the Mullins clan perhaps the foremost dynasty. There are many more of course, including the Walshs, Carberrys, Harringtons, O’Briens and Geraghtys.

The bloodstock end of the industry is even more family-oriented. In the past on these pages, we have profiled the history and enduring success of people like Ken Parkhill, William Flood and Maurice Burns, who are continuing traditions that go back generations at Castle Quarry, Boardsmill and Rathasker Studs.