With a lifetime´s experience and endless achievements it would be understandable if Dermot Weld decided to ease slightly off the pedal, but nothing could be further from the truth.
The master of Rosewell House is as driven as at any stage in his career and is visibly excited about the prospect of once again doing battle across the globe with his magnificent string of thoroughbreds.
"We needed to hit the ground running this season to take advantage of the opportunities at Dundalk. A fantastic facility with terrific prizemoney."
With his horses more forward than in previous seasons it is no wonder that the winners have flowed and the stable will continue to set the pace over the coming weeks and months as the bigger guns emerge on the scene.
Leopardstown maiden winner Winchester is certainly one to keep on the right side of as the Classics approach.
"He could be my Irish Derby horse. He is a very good horse and adaptable."
Two fillies that are also high up the pecking order are Chinese White and Mad About You and at this stage the latter is the one that is ticking all the right boxes.
"Mad About You is the sharpest of our fillies, she shows plenty of pace and is working exceptionally well. She will go straight to the Irish 1000 Guineas and is potentially an Oaks filly. Her form stands up to the closest of scrutiny."
"Chinese White was a little backward in her coat, but has come to herself in the last week. She will run at Gowran Park this Sunday, but will possibly need the run. She will ideally want a mile-and-a-half."
The other horse at the top of the pile is impressive Leopardstown scorer Famous Name.
"I am set to talk with the owners next week to make a decision regarding whether we go for the Irish or English Guineas with this colt. He is very fit and very well, but has a preference for soft ground."
Veteran Ansar will be trained for one last crack at the Galway Plate. The 12-year-old will be retired following the big race in August.
Bumper horse Endless Intrigue will be put away for an Autumn campaign on the Flat.
The 2-year-olds are a nice bunch, but as they are more staying than sprinting types the best of them won´t be seen until later in the season.
Some names to watch out for amoungst the juveniles are Campaign Swing (full brother to Refuse To Bend), Carefree Smile (a nice filly by Invinsible Spirit), Dance Pass (by Sadler´s Wells), and a forward colt called Naiazek (by Refuse To Bend ex Elshaams) that should make his debut in the next three to four weeks.
Another horse worth waiting for is an un-raced 3-year-old called Designated Decoy by Danzig.
Weld and his team are prepared for the challenges ahead and another record breaking season looks on the cards.
"The horses are healthy, Pat (Smullen) is riding with confidence and as long as I continue to place them well the winners will come."
