Nass raised the subject on this thread regarding trainers being paid for interviews. Below is Kim Bailey’s thoughts on the matter today in his blog. Some on here reckon he’s not the greatest at training horses but I reckon he’s spot on here. Clearly could teach a few of his fellow trainers a thing or 2 about good manners as well with their attitude to sponsors.
“Sorry folks but this idea of trainers
being paid for their interviews is ridiculous..We should be promoting our sport not hindering it....
Jockeys get paid for their interviews but that money goes to help fund/subsidise their insurance etc.. not directly into their pockets.
The top trainers are the ones who are probably fed up with all the interviews and feel that they should be rewarded, but can I see Nicky Henderson carrying a card machine around with him to be used before he opens his mouth!
Racing and trainers have many faults but forgetting this idea of cash for talking I feel we also are incredibly lax at appreciating those who help us by sponsoring racing.
I write to all non-betting related sponsors when I win a race and thank them. I know from my own experience that trainers and owners lack appreciation .. I have sponsored at Ascot and went out of my way to give a decent magnum of wine to winning trainer and owner and oddly enough the jockey as a prize. Ascot thanked me but they were alone.. I now do not sponsor!
I emailed the CEO of Peter Marsh thanking him for sponsoring their race for 40 years after
Trelawne was 4th there last week and he replied by saying ‘Many thanks for your kind email. It is very rare to receive such a lovely note of thanks, so it is much appreciated, and I have shared it with my colleagues''......A note goes a long way. We all like to be thanked..On that note David Attwood writes to trainers and owners thanking them for bringing their winning horse to Doncaster. David's personal hand written letter goes a long way.. ask Penny Perriss!
Racing needs to help itself not always line pockets..”
