Ruby Walsh and Pat Smullen were the stars at last night’s Horse Racing Ireland Awards, each receiving the Racing Hero Award. Walsh retired from the saddle with Grade 1 success at the Punchestown Festival. Crowned National Hunt jockey on a record 12 occasions, his record in big jump races around the globe was second to none. Cork jockey Wayne Lordan received the Flat Achievement Award, his season including victory in the Newmarket 1000 Guineas aboard Hermosa and a first Breeders’ Cup success, aboard Iridessa. He rode out his claim when winning the Cork National aboard The Gatechecker, having ridden his first winner just 16 months previously.

Source: Irish Examiner December 10, 2019 23:26 UTC