'It wouldn't have been possible without Jim Bolger - I take my hat off to him'

Plenty of people in racing face into bitter winds on a daily basis with only the hope of enjoying one big day to keep them going.

In living out his dream aboard Mac Swiney in the Irish 2,000 Guineas, Rory Cleary spoke to the hearts of so many in racing as he proved, with a lot of hard work and a generous helping of magic, good things can happen to good people.

It takes a certain type of person to inspire a guard of honour from your peers to acknowledge your breakthrough success. But that's exactly what happened when those who didn't have a ride in the Classic turned out to show their appreciation for the 33-year-old on his return to the winner's enclosure.