Galway-based fine art equine photographer Martina Regan’s specially commissioned portrait went stateside this week and was presented to President Obama on St Patrick’s Day in the White House by Henry Healy (Obama’s eighth cousin from Moneygall, Co Offaly).

The commissioned photograph shows Ireland’s last Cheltenham’s Gold Cup winning duo (in 2014), jockey Davy Russell and Lord Windermere. Shot at Jim Culloty’s yard in Churchtown, the image illustrates the bond between jockey and horse. “It is one of honesty, trust, mutual respect and above all the will to win,” explained Martina Regan.

Lord Windermere is trained by Jim Culloty at his yard in Mount Corbitt, Churchtown, Mallow, Co Cork. Jim is a three-time Gold Cup winner as a jockey and Gold Cup-winning trainer.

“We have a massive pride in horses and horse racing in Ireland. Our bond between horses and people – whether they are professional jockeys, leisure riders or trainers – runs deep and is one which is deeply respected and valued. So capturing the relationship between Davy and Lord Windermere was an incredible experience to be part of,” explained Martina.

“Ireland has always had a strong affinity with horses, from President Obama’s ancestors using them to travel to Church, to the modern day where we have a vibrant racing industry,” said Henry Healy.