Lesson in humility from a truly great sportsman

LAST weekend’s English Grand National was a great result for Irish racing as the first four home were all trained here. After an exciting war of attrition over a marathon trip, Davy Russell, the oldest jockey taking part, emerged victorious after a photo finish on Tiger Roll, the smallest horse competing.

In this age of pampered and petulant sports stars, it is heartily refreshing to witness a sportsman with Russell’s humility. In his after-race interview, he was quick to give the credit to others, despite having just achieved a lifelong ambition.

He was quick to mention his friend and fellow jockey Pat Smullen, who was recently diagnosed with a tumour. He also gave a lot of the credit for the horse’s development to Keith Donoghue an up and coming young jockey with the stable.

Likewise, he praised Gordon Elliot, the horse’s trainer, with whom Russell has been associated for years.

He also thanked the owner, Micheal O’Leary, and mentioned his importance to Irish racing.

A dedicated family man, Russell turned up at Tramore races the day after his National success and rode the winner of the first race – it surprised no one.

This jockey deserves all the admiration he gets, not only for being an outstanding professional but also for being an outstanding human being.

John Willoughby, Barrack Street, Carlow.