In the age of big money and mega-stables in jump racing, the plucky band of smaller owners who manage to grab a slice of the cake are arguably more important than ever for encouraging fans into the sport. Owners such as Andrew Gemmell, for instance, whose run of success with Paisley Park has been one of the most popular and memorable stories of recent seasons.
When Gemmell feels smaller owners are being unfairly penalised in some of National Hunt’s biggest events it may be an idea to take note of his concerns. Gemmell is looking forward to Paisley Park’s run in the Stayers’ Hurdle at Cheltenham next month as keenly as you would expect and fully appreciates how fortunate he is to have such a popular horse running in his colours.
