Adele Mulrennan: 'Remarkably I tipped up five winners from six horses and then I got the job'

Over the course of the next few weeks we will bring you a series of app-exclusive Q&As with star racing broadcasters. Next up: former jockey and ITV Racing pundit Adele Mulrennan

How did you get into TV?

It was a couple of years back when I was doing a box talk at York racecourse and Mark Demuth from ITV was there. Remarkably I tipped up five winners from six horses on the card and then I got the job. It's hard to believe that's the start of where I am now, especially to be nominated for awards already.

Who were your TV heroes?

My childhood TV heroes were definitely those that were on kids’ TV, but now it would have to be Laura Woods. I don't like football but I can watch anything she presents. She brings out the best in her pundits like no-one else can, no matter what the sport is. As far as presenting goes, she can do anything.

What's your favourite meeting?

It would have to be the big Yorkshire meetings, but I really like York, both the Dante meeting and Ebor festival. At the Dante you see glimpses of talent you hope can become superstars, whereas at the Ebor you have those big clashes when they've reached that.

What's your worst meeting?

There's no meeting I hate as they're part and parcel of the job and make the clocks go round,  but those midweek all-weather cards don't get me too excited. Those nine-race cards are tough work, especially for Paul [Mulrennan, husband and jockey] if he's riding one at the start and one at the finish!

What's the funniest thing you've seen on a racecourse?

I'm struggling to think of something specific, but working with Jason Weaver you're always guaranteed a funny shift. He's so mischievous and funny that he's always on his phone looking for jokes to tell you as you're getting yourself ready to go live and keeping you entertained throughout the day. He's really entertaining and good to work with.

What's the key to doing your job well?

It has to be making sure to go to the pre-parade ring - it really is the most underestimated part of the track. You get to see them without the saddle on and can see the full picture. You might be able to see their condition better, for example seeing a bit of rib, which you might not see under a saddlecloth. When horses are then tacked up, they can change character.

What was your most embarrassing moment on TV?

I suppose when I was a jockey I dropped my hands once near to the line and then finished second, which was embarrassing. As a pundit, I haven't done anything like swear yet, but I once called a bird a Cockatoo when it was a Cockatiel. I should've just said a Budgie!

Which horse are you most looking forward to running again?

It has to be Constitution Hill. His Fighting Fifth win left you wanting more. He's one of those horses you can't get bored of watching and you have the whole season being excited about what they can go on to achieve.

Who wins the King George?

Because you’ve not specifically asked for a horse, I'll say Paul Nicholls! I think it'll be either Bravemansgame or Hitman from the rest of the field - if I really had to give one I'd probably say Bravemansgame.

Read our exclusive TV presenter Q&As:

Megan Nicholls: 'I accidently swore on camera - it's fair to say everyone has done it' 

Ed Chamberlin: 'Des Lynam is my ultimate TV hero - he could do anything'