Stephen Thorne talks Donn McClean through some of the stable's big hopes for the new Flat season.
Stephen Thorne is one of the latest additions to the roll of Irish racehorse trainers. A graduate of the Godolphin Flying Start programme, he spent two years working with Mike de Kock in South Africa, before gaining valuable experience with Ralph Becket, and then joining Ado McGuinness as assistant trainer, where he was a key part of a team that enjoyed success on big stages in Ireland, Britain and France, as well as further afield in Dubai and Qatar.
Stephen took out his own trainer’s licence just last October and he hit the ground running. He had his first double at Dundalk in early November, when Sayifyouwill won the claimer and Shoot To Kill won the seven-furlong handicap, and he had his first treble on 14th March on a memorable evening at Dundalk. Hightimeyouwon and Pink Oxalis won earlier in the evening, and Harry’s Bar’s victory in the last race of the night – the 10-year-old gelding’s final race before retirement – sealed the title of Leading Trainer of Dundalk’s Winter Series for his fledgling trainer.
The turf season has started well too, with Laugh A Minute winning a six-furlong handicap at The Curragh on the opening day. With some new additions to the team, and a group of hugely enthusiastic and talented people, headed up by assistant trainer Stephen Mooney, there is lots to look forward to this season.
