Peter Cronin
Popular Irish trainer Peter Cronin will not be entering runners for this year’s Star Sports/TRC English Derby.
The handler of last year’s beaten favourite Kildare, Peter and had previously reached the final with Whoops Jack (’18).
Peter has no issue with Towcester per se, but wants to draw attention to certain issues that he believes need addressing.
Some relate specifically to the Derby. Most though, relate to cost related concerns for the industry in general, including breeding and red tape.
It is a thoughtful and constructive viewpoint and UK racing would be wise to consider, if, at a time of high inflation, it wants to enjoy and profit from the participation of Irish entries in major events.
Peter said: ” First and foremost I’m a big supporter of Towcester and was one of the first trainers to go over for a international night in the December they opened and have continued since and will continue to support the Derby in the future.
“Everyone working at the track put’s great effort into making us welcome and as helpful as possible.
“The Derby final last year was a great festival of racing and the management put great effort into it. However I would echo the concerns of fellow trainers , standards for our biggest event fell short of the high standards which preceded it and I know every effort will be made to rectify it in the future .
“Personally, I think more efforts can be made to encourage international participation. Given the rising cost of living and increasing paperwork with Brexit.
“A contribution towards entry fees as previously happened and trial stakes should include free entry to Derby as was the case .
“International trainers can only run in opens if prize money is £500 or more; so this could be anomaly that needs rectifying .
“The bookmakers as a whole need to step up to the plate, given the average aggregate at sales is €900 or so. This was never viable, but it certainly isn’t in the current climate and so BAGS racing has continued to be subsidised with Irish breeding.
“This is bourne out in the decline in breeding numbers from a hight of 5,000 litters to 2,000 currently. This is also evident in 4/5 dog races in uk .
“If the Category One stakes are invested in properly, this will encourage new owners and current owners to invest. This, in turn will, subsidise the Irish breeders, by enabling them sell their very small percentage of good dogs for a decent price.
“Ultimately, this encourages the dreams and aspirations of the breeder . . . and that keeps the wheels turning.”
