For all the great names attached to Peter O’Sullevan House, one of its brightest success stories is Billy Loughnane. He first came here as a 16-year-old apprentice and has made it part of his daily routine ever since — now a multiple Group 1-winning jockey whose rise has been as quick as his work ethic is steady. He’s one of the clearest examples of what these facilities can do when talent meets graft.
“Ascot was a class week. There was a bit of pressure going in with Bow Echo on the first day, so once he won I could enjoy it a little bit more. Then King of Cloughan and Libertango came out and did the job as well, which made the week even better. You never go to Ascot expecting to get three winners, so I couldn’t have asked for more. George (Boughey) and Joseph (O’Brien) are masters at getting them to peak for the big days.
Bow Echo had a rough race, so he had a few days off afterwards, but I rode him out this morning and he’s in super form and shown no lasting effects. Now all roads lead to Goodwood — the four-week countdown is on.
I use the IJF every day and I’ve been coming here since I was 16, and they’ve been a big part of my progress to where I am now. The facilities are top class, and the people are even better. Everything you could possibly need is here. I love coming in to train — the gym is fantastic — and Glen, who’s the PT and strength and conditioning coach, is one of a kind. He’s a legend. He has something tailor-made for me every day, and I love training with him.
They’re part of my routine. As soon as I finish riding out, I come straight here. I like coming in during declarations too, because then you’re not just sitting there watching to see where and what you’re riding. It takes you away from your phone a bit.
And it’s not just the gym. I love the hot yoga they have on a weekly basis. It’s not something I would’ve ever tried before and I never realised the benefits. It gets that deeper stretch and keeps you supple with all the sitting in the car we do travelling. It’s a massive help.
I enjoy a good game of table tennis as well. It’s a good way to relax. I play that quite a lot with the team after a gym session to wind down a bit if I’ve got time before going racing.
I love the ice bath. I use it a lot, especially on days like today, after a hot, sweaty gym session there’s nothing more refreshing. Even after all that sweating, a dip in that and it’s like it reboots you. Even in the winter I use it — it’s so good for recovery.
There’s such a great team of people here, all the way across the board. As soon as you walk in, and throughout every department, it’s almost like a big family.
Glen is a great sounding board, as are all the team. It’s good having someone who’s not in the yards or directly connected, but who’s a constant in your life. They care without being intrusive. They get the sport and see how much work I put in, so understand the frustrations. Those little chats are always a massive help. Whether I’m flying and grateful, or if I haven’t had a winner for a couple of weeks and I’m a bit low, they are there every day.
The older beneficiaries are a massive part of the place as well. I love listening to their stories. It’s good seeing them in the gym, keeping as fit as they can. This place really does cater for everybody. They’re always in good spirits, and you can see how much they enjoy being here and having a chat. They usually tell me about the old days. I love hearing their stories — if they see me sweating, they’ll say, “I used to do seven stone and you’re sweating doing nine!” It’s great having them around. They’re always watching the racing too. It’s nice — it’s like having a little support team. It’s never been lost on me how lucky we are.”