His association with the industry stretches back a great number of years. “I first became exposed to the gambling industry while at school (in county Clare) helping my mother, the local bookmaker, during lunchtimes and after school,” he recalled to the Limerick Independent.

“My brother and I were taught everything about the business, including making tea for the boss to marking the board, settling bets manually and laying off excess money to ensure profit was maintained and subsequently food on the table.” During his time at college in Galway, the likeable Clareman also worked weekends with Paddy Power, before then spending the customary year on a world excursion.

“I am hungry to realise my full potential in this industry. If I can progress, while influencing others along the way, I will be thoroughly satisfied.”

He concluded: “One of my burning ambitions is to write a novel, while another is fro somebody to go out and buy it! When I eventually hang up my boots (still plays competitive sport), I would like to think I have made a worthwhile and perhaps alternative contribution to my profession.”

Ian Madigan, a champion of the industry!

Sky’s The Limit is now a 16/1 chance with Paddy Power for both the Royal & SunAlliance Chase and the Arkle Trophy at Cheltenham in March, following his victory in the €100,000 Ballymore Novice Chase at Fairyhouse.

After a couple of fallers close home, the 9/4 favourite – with Andrew McNamara in the saddle – was left to cruise home from Be My Leader (14/1), with Line Ball (7/2) for JP McManus a little further behind in third. “He may go for the Powers Gold Cup at Fairyhouse rather than the Arkle at Cheltenham as there’s only two weeks between the two,” commented trainer Edward O’Grady.