Louth based trainer Harry Rogers, has had a quiet enough time of things at the Galway festival this year however as the saying goes “it’s not over, till the fat lady sings”. There is still two days of racing remaining.

Remaining entries of this year’s Galway festival

Saturday

4.45pm: Benkei Visibly struggled on the flat at this venue on Monday evening, however had been running credibly prior to that, he has the form in the book to be considered in this race at a big price.

Sunday

3:20pm Ben Alexander This horse is unraced, he is off interest as is related to a few notable ones, anticipated to be fully revved up for debut run.

5:30 Byron Beauty Well beaten at this venue on Tuesday and will need career best to win this however has ran well at this venue before, so not completely discounted.

Full exclusive interview with Harry Rogers below.

Tell us about yourself?

I’m based in Ardee, Co Louth where I have lived all my life. I’m married to Mary and have one son Christopher. I was a Jockey for 25 years, mostly freelance.

I won an Irish Champion Hurdle in Leopardstown, and the Galway Hurdle in 1988.

How did you get involved in racing?

I got involved in racing through spending summers with my uncle Michael McKeever who was Louth Huntsman. I served my time with Michael Cunningham a Galway man and then I progressed to be a jump Jockey, riding out around the country for various trainers.

How many do you have in training and what are your facilities like?

I have about fifteen Horses in training. I have a five furlong round sand gallop, sand schooling arena, sixty stables two ten horse walkers.

If you weren’t involved in racing, what job appealed to you?

I just love horses, so it had to be something that involved them.

What significance does Galway races week have in your calendar?

It’s the highlight of my year.

Most memorable Galway festival winner?

As a jockey Try A Brandy. As a trainer Fit The Cove.

What does it take to train a winner at the festival?

To win at the Galway festival, it takes a patient owner and a good horse.

What need’s improved in Irish racing presently?

Owners need to be treated better, and more courteously from turnstile to the parade ring, as they are the back bone of racing. Also the Racing Programme needs addressing with regard to lack of and spacing out of mile and six races, and two mile races on the flat.

Away from horse racing how do you unwind?

Trips in my motor-home with my wife Mary, our two dogs Bob and Honey, and a nice glass of wine. Sheer Peaceful Bliss.