Horseman James is recognised for work in Liz’s yard
A WELL-KNOWN Wexford man was honoured at the Godolphin Stud and Stable Staff Awards, which were held in the Knightsbrook Hotel in Trim, County Meath recently.
James Rath, from Blackwater, took home the In The Saddle Award which is presented to an individual working in a thoroughbred racing yard or stud farm who has shown exceptional horsemanship, dedication, team spirit and skill in the saddle, such as breaking horses and/or riding out.
James is the Head Lad at Wexford trainer Liz Doyle’s yard which is based in Crossabeg, making the win a very Wexford affair.
James, a former point-to-point jockey and a member of the Killinick Hunt, has worked with Liz since 2010. An exceptional horseman, he excels at breaking all young horses, whether it is a yearling or a difficult four-year-old. He recognises that, when dealing with bloodstock of such significant value, safety, patience and the enormous amount of ‘feel’ that James has, are of invaluable importance to the yard.
On receiving his award, James remarked: ‘It was a big surprise when I got to the final three so to win is great. Every field you pass by in Wexford has a horse in it; everyone is involved.’
He explained that he was up at 5.30 a.m. to feed his own horses and was into Liz’s yard for 6.30 a.m. to ride out.
‘There are lots of people all around the country that work behind the scenes but never get seen; to get recognised at a night like this is great.’
James received a cash prize of €5,000, a trophy and a further €3,000 to be shared among his work colleagues. The awards were presented by All Ireland winning Meath footballer and RTE GAA analyst Colm O’Rourke.