History

Pat ‘Shorty’ Leech started his racing career at the age of 12yrs, joining Noel Meade as an apprentice. He became a professional National Hunt jockey at an early age and was lucky enough to finish second to the great Frank Berry (10 times Irish NH champion jockey) in the jockeys championship in 1983, whilst still an apprentice.

He was retained by Noel Meade from 1983 to 1997 and won over 20 flat races and 130 jump races.

Pat’s career highlights include riding a double at Ascot, being associated with the good horse, Ballincurra Lad, winning the Irish Independent Sportstar of the Year and being a three times member of the Irish Jockey’s team.

Since retiring from race riding, Pat has worked for several of the top trainers continuing to bring-on youngsters into full training or as a work rider. He has gained valuable experience in the UK, Ireland and the USA.

Before taking out his training licence he continued as a work rider, whilst also breaking and bringing on young horses ready to go into full training.

At the age of 45, he had a brief return to race riding in 2007, riding in a couple of bumpers before finally hanging up his boots

In 2007, he also completed his trainer’s course at The British Racing School prior to taking out a combined licence in 2008. Within the first couple of months of training he had trained three winners and several placed horses.


	“I was always been interested in horse racing as a child and started my career at an early age. School never did hold my interest for long! I have worked for some talented trainers and sat on plenty of great horses in my time. I truly believe in bringing horses on as they dictate. You have to give them every chance to be good. Some require a bit of time and care, others get the game quickly. Every horse should be treated as an individual – ridden to ensure they can give their best and fed to do the same. I am lucky enough to still be able to ride and school every horse in my care. This allows me to get a ‘feel’ of each horse and work out a training programme and subsequent race plan which I feel will suit their individual personality. I love watching each horse progress and gain confidence in their abilities. To have trained winners in my first season has given me immense pleasure - and I hope it continues!” Pat

If your horse needs a change of scene or would benefit from individual attention, Pat would, of course, be delighted to discuss this with you.

If you are looking at purchasing a new horse, Pat would be pleased to be involved.