2008 Trainee Views

August - September 2008 - Kildangan, Ireland

On the 18th Aug 2008, after months of anticipation, the 12 newest Darley Flying Start trainees descended, from all corners of the globe, upon the renowned Kildangan Stud. The members of this year’s intake represent countries from as far afield as China, India, Canada, Germany, USA, UK, Australia and Ireland.

Upon arrival, we were all treated to a wonderful reception at the historic Kildangan House. Although the food was fantastic the conversation was a little stilted, with the twelve trainees (and the management team) trying to sus each other out. The first week was jam-packed with things to do, culminating with the annual Kildangan Stud Summer BBQ. It was a great opportunity to meet some more of the staff, as well as part take in several other activities. Unfortunately the annual ‘tug of war’ contest did not materialise, much to the dismay of the ultra competitive P.J. Anthony!

Despite the girls being lodged in the aptly named ‘isolation house’ the accommodation was more than acceptable, with the lads staying close to Kildangan village in Marienbard and Street Cry. Before receiving our bikes from Danny Mulvihill, the groups only means of transport was provided by Mick, Charlie and Gary – whose car was affectionately dubbed the ‘rat rod’ by his American colleagues. However, once given our new wheels everyone took to the roads, but it wasn’t long until Chance and Bill had some near misses. The first weekend gave the ‘international’ contingent an opportunity to taste European racing for the first time. Despite the unseasonal weather a great day was had by all, with a pair of 14-1 & 25-1 winners (from Jim Bolger’s yard) making it a relatively cheap first few weeks in Ireland.

Week two was another eventful week, with a two day communications course carried out by the more than helpful Monica Gorman. Everyone did a fantastic job with their presentations especially Mick - who should really consider a career in motivational speaking after his powerful talk on Munster Success. Week 2 concluded with the groups first visit to University College Dublin, and our introduction to Equine Anatomy. The course promises to be an invaluable learning experience, although a lot of extra-curricular reading material will be required – especially for those with no background on the topic. Again (terrible pun) the Curragh was the scene of another fantastic days racing, with the splendid Look Busy landing the gamble in the second last!

Our first visit outside of the Kildanagan Stud realm, included Ragusa Stud, Black Hall Stud and Old Connell. The visit was a real eye opener and highlighted the extent of Sheikh Mohammed’s interests in Ireland. It was great to get the opportunity to see some incredible broodmares including the £3.4m gns Satwa Queen and Dubai Sunrise (a full sister to Dubai Millennium). The whole team would like to extend a warm thank you to Pat Murphy, Mick Murphy and David Brophy for their insights.

On week 3 we attended the Racing Academy and Centre of Education (RACE), where Melanie gave everybody an exhibition of her stylish riding technique on the simulator. The Abbey Theatre was the scene of our first social excursion into Dublin, with Oscar Wilde’s ‘An Ideal Husband’ going down well, particularly with the theatre connoisseur Brian McGrath. Champion Stakes take two at Leopardstown was most enjoyable, with star performers New Approach and Lush Lashes on top of their game.

The first few weeks have been incredible, hopefully the next two years will follow suit.

Gary King & Mick Buckley

Click here for a list of all 2008 trainee views

Bungee run at Kildangan Stud Summer Barbeque
Chance shows grim determination at the
Kildangan Stud Summer Barbeque