Neive Graham, who was nominated for the most improved trainer last season, says he is happy for the recognition and that he promises to continue doing the necessary hard work to do even better this season.

In 2015, Graham saddled 17 winners from 74 starts to finish 14th in the trainers’ standing behind champion Wayne DaCosta, who saddled 67 winners. Graham saddled five winners to finish in 47th position in 2014.

“I have won this award before, I think it was back in 2007. There is a jinx to that award as quite a number of trainers who have won the most improved trainer award, their performance level dropped the following year. However, it is always nice to be recognised by your peers as it shows that they are supporting your progress and I am grateful for that,” Graham told the Complete Racing Guide in an interview.

Graham has so far saddled seven winners in 2016– three behind DaCosta who leads on 10 winners in the ‘most wins’ category.

Graham said that his main aim for this season is to win at least 40 races.

“Last season was a very good one for me and this season is going to be even better. My main owner, O’Shaun Connection, is pulling out all the stops in trying to win the owners’ championships and so that requires me to win at least 40 races. So my aim for 2016 is to win at least 40 races,” he said.

“To achieve my target of 40 winners, it is going to take a lot of hard work and dedication towards the sport, and right now I am doing that. In terms of the horses, I have to be more attentive and make sure that they are well taken care off. Most of all, you have to have a good owner, grooms and an assistant trainer and everything will be ok,” he explained.

“Right now I have a problem with the amount of space at my stables. I am unable to expand my stables as the limitation of space to get more stalls is proving very difficult, but the racing secretary is aware of the situation and is doing something to solve the issue,” he added.

Graham said that he has no regrets choosing a profession in the racing industry.

“Everything is good so far…everything has worked out good for me and I have no regrets in becoming a trainer. This is my sport and I am here doing what I do love – training horses,” he ended.