60 seconds with... PAUL HANAGAN – who rode a double at last year’s Saints and Sinners aboard Ulysees (9-4) and Sualda (11-10)

What is your best Hamilton Park moment?
I have fond memories of Hamilton, although I’m still to ride the winner of one of the really big races there. The track has been a lucky one for me, with plenty of winners, so I suppose the day I rode a treble a few years back would be the highlight.

Which race would you most like to win?

The Derby is the greatest race we have. But it’s too early to be thinking about winning it – I’ve not even ridden in one yet!

Best horse you’ve been involved with?

Anna Pavlova, the filly on whom I won the Silver Bowl last year. But I’ve always had a soft spot for Fonthill Road, so winning the Ayr Gold Cup on him last season was very special.

Who or what has been the biggest influence on your career?

My dad was in racing for a few years and has been a great source of encouragement and support. I’ve worked for Richard Fahey since I was 17 and he has given me a lot of good advice, not only about racing but about life in general.

Which sportsperson do you most admire?

As a Liverpool FC fan, I’d have to say Steven Gerrard as he’s such an inspirational player. I respect all the boys in the weighing room, particularly the senior lads like Kevin Darley, Franny Norton and Joe Fanning.

Do you have any pet hates?

Travelling – our roads are getting worse.

Where is your favourite holiday destination?

That’s a difficult one because, as a jockey, the times you usually go abroad are when you’ve been stung with a lengthy ban! I’ve been to Mexico and Tunisia recently – they’re both beautiful places.

What do you do to relax?

Watching Liverpool and spending time with my wife and seven-month-old baby boy, Josh.

What is the best thing about your job?

Riding winners – whether it is a seller or a group race, each one gives me a buzz.

And the worst?

A jockey’s life is a bit of a slog during the summer. You can be up at 6am, ride 10 losers at two meetings and not get home to 1am – then you do it all again the next day.

If you could change one thing about racing, or the way racing is run, what would it be?

I’d like to see the ‘totting-up’ procedure for suspensions looked at again. I think those lads who ride on the all-weather throughout the winter deserve a bit more leeway.