'I know I'm better than most of them in the weighing room - without any doubt'

If ever proof were needed they do not make them like they used to, then look no further than John Egan. His diminutive, 8st frame should fool no-one. This is a man with steel at his core and, even at the age of 54, he refuses to bend.

He is also a throwback to an era when people said what they were thinking rather than what they thought others wanted to hear. It might not always work in his favour, but he could never be accused of being opaque.

On a bright and vibrant morning in the grounds of the National Stud in Newmarket, the surroundings reflect Egan's demeanour. Still riding a wave following his son David riding a first Classic winner on Eldar Eldarov in the St Leger, there is a pep in his step.