Taking The Reins - Oisin Orr - Episode 5

He's a two-time Irish Champion Apprentice Jockey, who has tasted Classic success in the Irish St Leger back in 2020, and has ridden over 200 winners in his career to date.

We're delighted to be joined by Oisin Orr for episode five of our Taking The Reins podcast, which is produced in association with the PJA.

Now it's time to find out all about Oisin's story, as he talks Adam McNamara through his highs and lows, where it all began, advice received from the late great Pat Smullen, ambitions to become Champion Jockey and thoughts on working for both Dermot Weld and Richard Fahey, with much more covered too.

0:00 - Introduction
1:29 - Where did it all begin for Oisin?
2:58 - A two-time Champion Apprentice Jockey and riding for Dermot Weld
4:10 - Advice received from Pat Smullen
5:05 - Changing situation at Dermot Weld's
8:01 - Taking opportunities and moving to Richard Fahey's
9:50 - What riding instructions does Fahey give Oisin?
11:23 - How does Oisin relax a horse?
12:24 - What does a Classic-winning horse feel like?
13:36 - What does Oisin get up to outside of racing?
16:06 - What is Oisin's career ambition?
18:15 - What does an average day look like in the life of a jockey?
18:39 - The challenge of making weight and using baths
21:35 - What is Oisin's aim in the short-term?
22:39 - What other sacrifices has Oisin made because of his career?
23:32 - Culture change of moving from Ireland to the UK
26:30 - Oisin's thoughts on Guinness and his typical choice of drink
27:19 - Moving away from home and family
29:18 - Adapting to life in the weighing room and lessons learnt
31:58 - Difference between Northern and Southern weighing rooms
32:40 - Getting shouted at by Pat Smullen and Shane Foley
34:40 - Experiencing the Breeders' Cup
36:45 - Culture shocks of American racing
38:07 - Thoughts on winning the Irish St Leger and riding at the big meetings
39:22 - Which course has the best crowd?
41:03 - Dealing with abuse received on course and on social media
43:45 - What advice would Oisin give to his younger-self?
44:31 - If Oisin could change one thing from his career so far, what would it be?

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