Ireland is a country steeped in horse history and heritage, with tough men and brave horses punctuating the script. Two such examples are Ted Walsh and Hewick, both adding to the story in their own unique way last weekend.

Ted has been a familiar face for as long as I can remember, both as a racehorse trainer and as a racing commentator. His no nonsense approach to life translated perfectly in front of a television camera, and Ted enjoyed some forty years working for RTE.

Thirty of those years were spent co-hosting with Robert Hall, and together they brought the highs and lows of horse racing to our living rooms. Ted’s announcement at Punchestown last Saturday of his decision to retire from his presenter role surprised everyone.

Forthright

Ted has occasionally caused controversy in the past with his forthright views, but this only endeared him further to his audience. He was a successful amateur jockey before he became a trainer, winning four Cheltenham Festival races in the saddle and claiming another two-so far, at least as a trainer.

The whole Walsh family have made their presence felt across the equestrian industry; Ted and his wife Helen bred the Olympic event horse Lenamore, who was ridden by Caroline Powell throughout his career. They also bred Stoney Brook, who took their daughter Katie to both the Junior and Young Rider European Championships in eventing.

One of my favourite memories is of Papillon winning the Aintree Grand National in 2000. Trained by Ted and ridden by Ruby Walsh – Ted’s son, who was riding in the race for the first time – Papillon made dreams come true. Ted continues to train a select string of smart horses from his Kill, Co Kildare base, and no doubt he will be kept busy in his retirement.

Courage

Hewick proved both his class and his courage last weekend, winning the Grade 2 Bet365 Oaksey Chase at Sandown with Rachael Blackmore in the saddle. Hewick was famously bought for just €850, and he is the gift that keeps on giving. Winning the American Grand National at Far Hills in 2022 for trainer Shark Hanlon, Hewick then lined up for the Cheltenham Gold Cup in March 2023.

Travelling easily, Hewick unexpectedly suffered a brutal fall. Many a horse would have been shaken by such an experience, but Hewick showed resilience and heart when pulling away to win on Saturday. What a special horse.