FIRST AID

AIDAN O'Brien has spoken of his delight - not to mention relief - after being crowned champion Flat trainer in Britain for an eighth time.

- RUAIRÍ MURPHY

The 56-year-old, who has been champion every year in Ireland since 1999, ultimately fended off the challenges of Andrew Balding and John and Thady Gosden comfortably.

All three yards were successful on Champions Day at Ascot and while the championship runs from January 1 to December 31, O'Brien's haul was enough to ensure he cannot be caught.