Jack Kennedy
What was your childhood ambition? I always wanted to be a jockey
Growing up, who was your sporting hero? Davy Russell
Do you have a mentor? Gordon Elliott
What or where is your happy place? Riding horses
What sparked your love of racing?
When I was small, my brothers Michael and Paddy were pony racers – so that gave me the bug
What horse put you on the map?
Two special horses - Outlander and Labaik
Who is your favourite horse? Apple’s Jade – she is brilliant
What was it like to ride in your first race? Soooooo exciting!
How long does it take to learn race-riding tactics? You never stop learning
Describe the feeling of riding/training your first winner? It’s hard to describe but it’s a great feeling
What is your most memorable racing moment?
My first Cheltenham festival winner on Labaik who won the Supreme Novice’s Hurdle at Cheltenham in March 2017
What is your favourite racecourse in Ireland? Leopardstown
If you weren’t a jockey/trainer what would you be? Probably a carpenter
If you could ride one horse, what would it be? Past: Istabraq
Present: Envoi Allen
How do you cope with pressure? Fairly well - I’m very laid back
What mental preparation do you do for the big days? It’s no different from a normal day
How do you stay motivated?
When you’re riding for the likes of Gordon Elliott it’s easy to stay motivated
How do you deal with dips in form?
I don’t panic you just have to take things as they come
Outside of racing, what is your favourite sporting moment? Kerry winning the All-Ireland in 2014
Can you give us a Netflix/film recommendation? 1947
What is your guilty pleasure? Chocolate
Desert island discs – name your favourite three songs? Any of ‘Walking On Cars’ songs
What person do you admire the most and why?
Gordon Elliott, he started with nothing and worked his way to the top
Favourite dinner? Chicken curry
Where is your favourite place to go on holidays? America
What ambitions do you still have?
To ride as many winners as I can and hopefully be Champion jockey one day
What is the hidden gem of Kerry? Peddlers Lake on the Connor Pass
When you think of Kerry what immediately springs to mind?
The scenery
How are you occupying your time during the Covid-19 restrictions?
My brother Paddy and I have our own yard in Kildangan in Kildare so that’s keeping us busy
If you had one piece of advice for everyone during these worrying times of Covid-19, what would it be?
Stay positive and follow the guidelines
Favourite saying/quote? Tús maith leath na hoibre the work)
(a good start is half