I'm on a horse for the first time in about eight years, enjoying a ride along the River Nore on the Mount Juliet Estate. It's sunny, beautiful and peaceful, and Theo my horse has the right temperament for a rusty rider like myself.
I have come down to Mount Juliet to see the new Equestrian Centre at the hotel which re-opened in March. It offers world class facilities to both hotel guests and locals alike, and horse riding lessons for all levels of ability.
Boasting two arenas, state-of-the-art stables, FEI show jump paddocks, and a cross-country course, it is all managed by a team of equestrian trainers and grooms.
Guests can stroll down to the stables, which are on the grounds, where they will be matched with a horse that suits them.
I went out with a beginners group, while the other group, which included Paul, galloped around the estate. The new Equestrian Escape packages are from €270 per person for both experienced riders and beginners eager to experience life in the saddle.
A guided equestrian trail led by the estate’ instructors is the highlight of the stay, offering a memorable way to explore the rolling landscapes and natural beauty of one of Ireland’s most celebrated country estates.
Guests can enjoy an overnight stay in either the Manor House or the contemporary Hunter’s Yard, followed by a full Irish breakfast with access to the health club.
Champion Jockey Paul Townend, who was recently announced as an ambassador for Mount Juliet Estate, was on hand to launch the facility and the equestrian packages and spoke about his career during a sit down at dinner.
The Cork man became top jockey for Willie Mullins in 2019 after Ruby Walsh retired. He mentioned that even though there was always that competitiveness between them, he learned a lot through Ruby. He said: 'Its tough enough trying to compete out there, without going against the tide.'
Going way back to the beginning of his career, Paul fondly remembers his famous first win with The Chip Chopman for Willie Mullins, saying it took him two years to win a race in his apprenticeship. 'The future looked bright then didn't it! It took me a long time to ride a winner for him. The first one is always special'.
It's no secret that with such acclaimed titles, comes the fame and fortune that goes with it. But Paul, as humble as can be simply replied 'no' when asked if he was well off. Being self-employed, the injured jockeys fund is where Paul makes most of his money. Taking away only about seven per cent of the earnings that come with a title, Paul joked that his Porsche is his biggest luxury item that he has splurged on with his winnings.
He said: 'I bought the Porsche because growing up I loved speed, I love racing cars. I'm very fortunate because I have been successful. I own my dream house. I decided when I won the Grand National and I won the Gold Cup, and the Champion Hurdle, I just said let's get it now while I can and enjoy it.'
But it's not all just glitz and fame that comes with the job. Paul admits that, like everyone, he does have bad days, but he tries to stay positive even when he has a bad race. He said: 'I suppose it's surrounding yourself with the right people. I like to be outdoors, and keeping busy too. I think it's important to take yourself out of the bubble, we can get very consumed in what we're doing.'
When asked what else he would want to achieve in racing, Paul mentioned how traveling is a big passion of his with the sport. Wanting to compete in races around the world, the champion jockey mentioned how the Nakayama race in Japan is one of his bucket list races.
With no sight of his retirement coming soon, Paul has not given his retirement much thought, but 'all he knows is horses' and hinted that his next career move would be something in the equine world. 'But it definitely won't be training horses!'.
The Equestrian Escape packages are available now at Mount Juliet here.
Unfortunately they dont include a riding lesson with Paul himself.
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