Henry de Bromhead

What this savvy Irish trainer has achieved in jump racing this season is remarkable. Jennifer Donald meets the incredible driving force behind the team who are rewriting the history books

- Jennifer Donald

TO win either the Grand National, the Cheltenham Gold Cup, the Champion Chase or the Champion Hurdle in a season would be a life-defining moment for any trainer. But to claim all four, the holy grail of jump racing, in the space of four weeks is simply extraordinary. Henry de Bromhead has barely had a chance to draw breath during the whirlwind of the past two months.

“The whole thing’s been incredible – it does feel special but you have to pinch yourself a bit,” says the trainer from his Co Waterford home. “I grew up watching all these races and never dreamt I’d have a runner in them, let alone win them.”

While many trainers must be eyeing his winning haul enviously, Henry cannot pinpoint this season’s winning formula – it’s just something he’s been “tinkering with” over the years.

“I never expect – always hope,” he says. “But I’m basically always trying to improve what we do. There have been no big changes though, we just hit a purple patch at the right time.”

The Rachael Blackmore factor undoubtedly played its part and Henry is quick to credit the influence of his stable jockey, whose analytical approach makes her the master tactician.

“She’s a brilliant rider, the ultimate professional and she’s great to work with so we’re very lucky to have her,” he says.