Following Kauto Star’s sensational third consecutive victory in the King George VI at Kempton on 26 December 2008, Eimear Chance catches up with his jockey – the ‘man of the moment’…
What has been your favourite win of your career?
It would have to be when I won the 2000 Grand National on Papillion trained by my father Ted. I was only 20, I had just come back from injury and it meant a lot winning a national for my dad.
How do you celebrate a big winner?
It depends on what is happening the next day, if there is racing than I can’t do a lot. If there is no racing than we go out for dinner and a few drinks with friends.
How do you relax after a bad day at the races?
I try to leave it behind me at the racecourse; I go home, watch TV and talk to my wife Gillian.
Do you find it hard juggling your career between Ireland and England
No, the horses I ride have a good hold of things. Luckily, the major races in England are on a Saturday and then on a Sunday in Ireland, as long as that goes on I’ll be okay. The only problem I have is when flights are delayed.
Do you envisage taking over the reins from your father as a trainer one day?
It depends, I think I could manage the training, it would be the socialising and dealing with the owners that I am not sure that I could manage.
Who do you most admire in the sport?
AP McCoy, he is great ambassador for the sport.
