The money raised from the Pat Smullen Champions Race in the Curragh last month has the potential to benefit everyone in Ireland, according to jockey agent and broadcaster Kevin O'Ryan.
The race saw the return of retired jockeys such as Ruby Walsh, AP McCoy, Paul Carberry and Joseph O'Brien all in aid of Cancer Trials Ireland.
With over €2.5 million raised so far, O'Ryan joined Friday Night Racing to talk about the success of the event and what it means for everyone, not just those involved in racing.
While racing is typically a hyper-competitive industry, O'Ryan highlighted the fundraising as a testament to the industry's ability to come together.
"It's so competitive, there is so much money at stake, but, when someone is in need in our industry, it is the best for rallying around and getting something done," the Racing TV broadcaster said.
"The generosity of people has been just second to none. I know Pat and everybody involved in the Cancer Research Trials Ireland team, the medical team working after Pat, have been totally overwhelmed by the money raised and the generosity of people.
"From the biggest people in the game to the smallest people in the game everyone put their hand in their pocket, everybody tried to do something different and tried to get involved in it."
O'Ryan added that the funds raised have the potential to transform the future of cancer treatment for everyone in Ireland.
"It's a game-changer it's going to benefit everyone in Ireland and people who have never even had an interest in racing before.
"What's been generated by the racing industry for this unbelievable cause it's, please God, going to help everyone in Ireland, man woman and child and that is a testament to our industry.
"Some of the people from Cancer Trials Ireland were there that night at the Champions Dinner in the Shelbourne and they were overwhelmed by the whole thing.
"And they said to a few people that they didn't think anybody actually realises the magnitude of the money raised and what this is going to do."
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