On The Coalface

This month on On The Coalface, Jamie Railton is joined by one of Irish racing’s great characters, Peter Molony of Rathmore Stud.Fresh from breeding Hampton Court Stakes winner Generic, Peter reflects on every breeder’s dream of producing a Royal Ascot winner and the story behind the Adalene Partnership with Henry de Bromhead and David Redvers.The conversation also delves into the extraordinary history of the Molony family, from Peter’s legendary father Martin and uncle Tim, to Rathmore Stud’s remarkable production of top-class performers on both the Flat and over jumps.Peter discusses: • The story of Generic and his exciting full sister heading to the Goffs Orby Sale • Rathmore Stud's rise • Why County Limerick continues to produce elite racehorses • His work with Goffs and the people that make the industry special • The future of Rathmore and the next generation of the Molony familyA fascinating conversation about family, horsemanship, Irish breeding and a lifetime dedicated to horses.With thanks to our sponsors: Saracen Horse Feeds, Oliver St Lawrence Bloodstock and Whitsbury Manor Stud.

One of Britain’s leading young trainers joins the latest episode of the Jamie Railton 'On The Coalface' Podcast as Charlie Johnston reflects on life at the helm of one of racing’s most recognisable operations.Still only in the early years of his training career, Johnston has already trained more than 450 winners and amassed over £8 million in prize money since taking over the licence at Kingsley Park. In a wide-ranging conversation, he opens up on carving out his own identity after succeeding his father Mark Johnston, the realities of inheriting a major racing business, and the challenge of balancing tradition with evolution.The conversation also looks ahead to Epsom, with Johnston discussing his exciting Derby contender Ancient Egypt, last year’s brilliant run with Lazy Griff, and what it would mean to deliver a Classic success for owner Kia Joorabchian. He explains why attracting more high-end bloodstock is central to his long-term ambitions and reflects on the perception of Johnston Racing as specialists with middle-distance horses.Elsewhere, Charlie shares his thoughts on the changing riding styles within the yard, the influence of legendary jockey Joe Fanning, and whether his training methods differ from those of his father.In the second half of the episode, the discussion broadens into the future of British racing, including governance of the sport, fixture list concerns, prize money, racecourse power, ownership experience and the wider bloodstock market.With thanks to Charlie and our sponsors: Saracen Horse Feeds, Oliver St Lawrence Bloodstock and Whitsbury Manor Stud.

Jamie Railton is joined by Roderic Kavanagh of Glending Stables and Kildaragh Stud for a really interesting look at the modern breeze-up market - how much it has changed, where the value can still be found and why the sector is now producing top-class performers at the highest level.They also discuss Glending’s journey, the horses including Vandeek that helped put the operation on the map, the importance of trust and horsemanship, and the new Breeze Up Consignors Committee code of conduct.A great listen as head into the Breeze Ups in AprilWith thanks to Jim and our sponsors: Saracen Horse Feeds, Oliver St Lawrence Bloodstock and Whitsbury Manor Stud.

On the latest episode of On The Coalface, we’re joined by our first jockey guest, Jim Crowley, champion Flat jockey in 2016 and long-time Shadwell number one. Jim looks back at his early years around point-to-pointers and hunting in Berkshire, the “proper grounding” that shaped him, and the moment Harvey Smith spotted him and took him up to Yorkshire.From there, Jim talks through switching codes after 300 winners over jumps, the milestones that moved his Flat career on, and how his curiosity for pedigrees and stallion traits led him into breeding. The conversation then turns to the stallions he knows as well as anyone: Mostahdaf, Minzaal and Baaeed - what made them different, what they might pass on, and why toughness and temperament still matter.Jim also speaks candidly about his serious fall at York, the reality of rehab, and how the last year has reshaped his perspective on racing and life.Sponsored by:•⁠  ⁠Whitsbury Manor Stud•⁠  ⁠Oliver St Lawrence Bloodstock•⁠  ⁠Saracen Horse Feeds

In this episode of On The Coal Face, Jamie Railton sits down with Martin Pipe, one of the most influential trainers in National Hunt racing history.From starting with no background in horses to becoming a 15-time Champion Trainer, Martin reflects on the thinking, discipline and decisions that reshaped how racehorses are trained. He talks openly about introducing weighing, blood testing, interval training and swimming long before they became standard practice, and how lessons learned from greyhound racing helped shape his methods.The conversation covers landmark horses, pivotal Cheltenham moments, programme-book planning, front-running tactics and the trainers and jockeys who came through his yard. Martin also revisits the media scrutiny he faced at the height of his success, shares stories behind iconic wins, and explains why fitness, routine and preparation always mattered more than fashion.In the second half of the episode, Martin discusses the modern training landscape, the jockeys he learned most from, where the next edge might come from, and how closely he still follows the horses at home today.A rare, reflective and detailed insight from a man who changed the sport by doing things differently.Sponsored by:• Whitsbury Manor Stud• Oliver St Lawrence Bloodstock• Saracen Horse Feeds

Mick and David Easterby - Reflection on Times

This month we are joined by Ed Harper, owner and manager of Whitsbury Manor Stud, who discusses his road to success. 

This month we welcome Conor Quirke to the podcast. Conor came into the industry with no background in horses and has achieved a huge amount of success, most notably purchasing Big Evs and Big Mojo. He is an example to the next generation. Tune in to hear Conor's story to success. 

This month On The Coalface, we're thrilled to welcome Matt Eaves from Star Bloodstock. As we dive into the peak of the yearling season, Matt will share his insights on the current market and the impact of new technology in the industry. With the rise of AI, could we see a future where Bloodstock Agents are replaced?Tune in to hear Matt's thoughts on this intriguing topic and more.

Philip Newton is a prominent figure in our industry, serving as the dedicated TBA Chairman. With a wealth of experience and a deep passion for the field, Philip had been instrumental in driving the organization toward success. Join us on our podcast, On the Coal Face, as we explore the remarkable journey and insight of Philip Newton.Kindly sponsored by Saracen Horse feeds, The Racing Manager and Oliver St. Lawrence.

In our new episode, We welcome our first French guess, one of the most renowned Bloodstock Management Advisor in Ftance. Bertrand followed into his father's step, sending some of the first French top jumpers in Ireland and England.his Worldwide cursus took him to Ireland (Tattersalls Ireland), Britain (Tattersalls), South Africa (Summerhil & Varsfontein Stud) and Kentucky (Keeneland).A Tattersalls French representative since 2000, Bertrand had always kept a keen interest in Jump racing.He's responsible for the high-class performer FASTORSLOW and multiple Grade 1 chaser in France.  He's been instrumental in the Career of Groupe 1 winners on flat like CHANNEL, BLOND ME...

Join us on this enlightening episode of our podcast as we delve into the world of hunting with two distinguished guest :Sir Mark Prescott, a prominent figure in the horse racing industry known for his expertise in training with over 2000 winners to his name, including Alpanista, winner of the 2022 Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.and David Redvers, a renowned Bloodstock agent and founded of Tweenhills Stud in 1995. He have purchased Roaring Lion, Lightning Spear, Havana Gold, Elm Park, Mangoustine ect... David is also the Racing and Bloodstock manager for Sheik Fahad al Thani and his brother's Qatar Racing operation.We explore together the contentious topic of whether horse hunting should be banned. We consider the ethical implications, the historical significance of hunting with horses, and the potential impact of such a ban on the sport of horse racing.

Patrick Veitch studied mathematics at Cambridge University but soon find himself devoting more to the horses than the algorithms.He is widely regarded as one of the most successful gamblers. He made over 10 millions in profit from betting between 1999 and 2007. However, his success has not come without controversy,  and his life had been marked by both triumph and tragedy.In his autobiography, titled "Enemy Number One: The Secrets of the UK's Most Professional Punter," Veitch details his journey to becoming one of the most successful punters of modern times. The autobiography also delves into the methods and strategies Veitch used to earn his fortune, which he claims were based on mathematical models and statistical analysis.

 This month, I am joined by Bill Dwan and David Cox from Baroda Stud.Nestled in the picturesque county of Meath, The Castelbridge Stud stands out as premier European thoroughbred sales consignor. The company wealth of experience and unwavering professionalism ensure a top-tier service for both vendors and purchasers.Baroda stud is one of Ireland's best farms. Situated in the heart of the renowned thoroughbred county Kildare. Baroda and Rosetown Stud Farms are set on 400 acres and provide excellent facilities for producing top quality thoroughbred horses.

Tally-Ho Stud is located close to Lough Ennell in Co. Westmeath on limestone land which has produced horses for three-quarters of a century. The stud has been under the ownership of Tony and Anne O’Callaghan for over 40 years who manage the enterprise with their sons Roger and Henry. During that time, Tally-Ho have built a reputatation that see's them recognised as one of the leading consignors of thoroughbreds in both Ireland and England.Hear from Roger O'Callaghan as he talks everything Tally Ho as well as industry issues and his opinion on the current state of British and Irish racing and breeding.

Eve started training in 2007 and had a flying start with 22 winners and has continued on an upward curve ever since, consolidating her position as a leading lady trainer.The 2018 season saw Eve scale new heights with her breakthrough Group 1 & Royal Ascot winner Accidental Agent who scored in fine style in the Queen Anne stakes.In recent seasons team Woodway has also had other notable successes from the likes of The Cheka, What About Carlo, Scarlet Dragon & Magnolia Springs.Going forward, boutique trainer Eve is looking to keep on improving and increasing the size of the string whilst retaining the personal touch.As a leading amateur jockey Eve rode 20 winners including the prestigious Ascot Diamond race twice.  She rode for some notable trainers including Barry Hills, Roger Charlton and her father Fulke Johnson Houghton. She also rode in the Euro American Champion series with Chris Bonner representing England, where over a series of 8 races in England, Germany and the USA they were champions.

Ralph started as stable lad in 1989, spending a year in Australia working for Colin Hayes and others. He then did two seasons with Jimmy Fitzgerald, a summer in Belmont, New York, and two and a half years with Arthur Moore. After a season with Martin Pipe, he went to work for Peter Walwyn as his assistant in 1996.He took over from Peter in 2000, training 105 winners from Windsor House in Lambourn. His best performer whilst there was the G3 Fred Darling winner Penkenna Princess, who was a short-head second in the 2005 Irish 1000 Guineas. Come On Jonny won The November Handicap the same year. Whitsbury Manor’s landlord Chris Harper asked him to go there for the 2006 season, replacing David Elsworth, trainer of Desert Orchid and Persian Punch.Look Here won the 2008 Oaks, becoming the first and only classic winner trained at Whitsbury. Muhannak won the Breeders’ Cup Marathon in the same year. In all, Ralph sent out 245 winners during his stint there.Ralph started negotiating to buy Kimpton Down from Toby Balding and his son-in-law Jonathan Geake in 2010. This was completed in time to move for the start of 2011. In August 2019 at Salisbury, Another Boy won an Apprentice Handicap, and in the process became Ralph’s 1000th domestic winner. His most notable achievement to date is the 1-2 in the 2013 Oaks with Talent and Secret Gesture. Simple Verse won the 2015 St Leger, becoming the first filly to do so since User Friendly in 1992.

Nick has placed horses in his management to win over 200 races and his knowledge of the race fixture book is second to none. By the start of the 2016 turf season Nick had spent £2.2 million in the sales ring on behalf of his owners since 2009, during the same period the same bloodstock returned just over £5 million, with 40% of the horses still to be sold. Such an extraordinary return has been achieved spotting the talents of equine stars who were sold for up to 30 times their purchase price.Since 2016, Nick's buying record has gone from strength to strength with 2020 being an extraordinary year for Nick Bradley Racing. In 2020 only Godolphin and Hamdam al Maktoum picked up more 2yo victories or prize money than the Nick Bradley Racing horses. When you consider that in 2020, Nick Bradley Racing had less than twenty 2yos in training it was quite an achievement to see so much success on the track.Nick has developed a reputation for being as sharp as anyone in the horse racing industry when it comes to selecting bloodstock. This is not a self labelled title Nick has given himself, regular success of buying the right horses for small budgets has seen this reputation build over the last 10 years.Nick has chosen to focus very much on the 2yo and 3yo race programme. When at the sales he views, selects and purchases in the main, yearling and 2yo fillies to race within this programme. In essence, this allows Nick to aim to master his trade rather than being the jack of all trades. 

Having grown up on a stud farm, horses have always been a passion for Charlie and his reputation as a fine horseman has helped him establish one of Europe’s most successful bloodstock agencies.For over 35 years Charlie has been purchasing top-class bloodstock which continue to compete at the top level across the globe.Among many career highlights Charlie has purchased 10 Classic winners, including Epsom Derby hero Kris Kin and 2000 Guineas winner King’s Best, and the winners of 63 Group 1 races.In addition to an impressive yearling purchase record, Charlie has an exceptional mare purchase record, having bought the dams of world-class horses such as Dar Re Mi, Alexandrova, Magical Romance and War Command. He has also made many shrewd horses-in training buys, which include the winner of the Group 1 Hong Kong Derby (Brave Music) and Group 1 Golden Jubilee Stakes (Cape of Good Hope).

John Francome MBE (13 December 1952) is a former National Hunt Champion Jockey, television pundit and author.At sixteen years old he became apprentice to Lambourn trainer Fred Winter  and so began his career as a jockey. He rode a total of 1,138 winners,  his last being in April 1985. He was  Champion Jockey seven times, between 1976 and 1985 and is dubbed the best jockey never to have won the Grand National.After retiring, Francome was awarded the MBE in 1986 for services  to racing. He was a trainer for 18 months before becoming a TV  presenter for Channel 4’s horse racing broadcasts. Like another former jockey, Dick Francis, Francome has taken to writing works of fiction. His books have featured on the bestseller lists. Francome ceased appearing on Channel 4 Racing at the close of 2012 when the Highflyer Production term ended. He stated in a Racing Post interview that he had only continued to work on TV for so long out of loyalty to producer Andrew Franklin.

"Breeze-up horses are tougher, more durable, see the racecourse more often and last longer" Hear from Jamie Railton and John Cullinan, Joint Head Of The Breeze-up Consignors Association on all things Breeze-up Sales, how John got into the industry, some funny stories and global industry chat! 

Angus Gold has been Racing Manager at Shadwell for over 30 years! He is a well-known figure at racecourses and sales complexes all around the globe! On this second episode of On The Coalface you will enjoy hearing Jamie Railton and Angus discuss the following topics: - Shadwell going forward following the restructure after the passing of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum. - The global racing industry over the past 10 years and the future of racing- Stable Staff crisis - As well as some personal questions with Angus. 

Joe Foley wears many hats in the bloodstock world. First and foremost he is the owner and manager of Ballyhane Stud in County Carlow, while in recent years he has overseen his friend Steve Parkin’s growing Clipper Logistics racing and breeding operation.Hear from Jamie Railton and Joe Foley as they discuss new stallions with first runners and yearlings as well as other relevant bloodstock topics.