We recently had the privilege of an exclusive interview with rising weighing room star Finny Maguire.

How did you get into racing

My dad Adrian was a very successful jockey in England and trains now, so horses have been around me my whole life. I actually had no interest in horses until I was about 12 and started pony racing.

Best memorable moment so far in the saddle?

So far, my best memory would probably be riding The Giant Bolster at Cheltenham a couple of years ago. It was great to experience the festival. I’d love to get another spin there though as the first time seemed to go over my head a bit.

Plans for the future?

I’m planning on finishing up college this year and my weight seems to be settling down so the idea of turning professional is playing on my mind a bit. I think I’d regret not giving it a go.

Give Us a horse to follow?

Without Limites is a lovely horse who I won a couple of bumpers on and was recently 3rd on him over fences. He fell the other day but didn’t look himself from the outset. Liz Doyle is a brilliant trainer and if he bounces back to his best he’ll be a lovely type for a big staying chase somewhere.

Breakthrough jockey?

Declan Queally is mixing riding and training and his horses are running well on the point to point circuit. Declan knows his stuff and can definitely do the job when he gets the horse.

Advice for a upcoming jockey?

I’m still young myself but I’d say it’s important to listen to the trainers and jockeys around you who have been there, done it and been successful in the game. Listen closely to little bits of advice from the top lads especially, they’re at the top for a reason.

Favourite racetrack?

My favourite track to ride on is probably Cork as it’s a big straightforward galloping track, but I haven’t ridden many winners there, so I’d say Thurles since I’ve ridden a bumper, hurdle and chase winner there.

Your most memorable victory?

There’s a few nice ones but I’d say winning the amateur maiden in Galway on my first ride for Dermot Weld is the most memorable. I was 16 and had only ridden 1 winner before it and a handful of rides so it was my first time in the spotlight. It was owned by Sheikh Mohammed, not too many lads can say they’ve ridden a winner for him!

Away from racing, how do you unwind?

I will go and have a bit of craic with the lads in college when time allows, other than that just relax at home and watch something on Netflix.