"It's the right time" - James Ewart set to quit training ranks

James Ewart says "it's the right time" as he reveals to Racing TV that he is set to quit the training ranks.

Ewart has trained more than 250 winners from his yard in the Scottish Borders, and struck with his final runner when Lucky Manifest landed the Strawmax Novices' Hurdle at Kelso three days ago.

The 46-year-old explained the main reason behind his decision was due to family commitments, and that he has decided to stop being "a bit selfish" and look to the future.

Ewart told Racing TV's Gordon Brown:  "The time is right. Family has to come first and, financially, racing is a burden. You start to look to the future and wonder what you're going to do, and I just felt that we had to make a decision. 

"I think that it's a reflection of me being less selfish, and trying to make sure I have security for my family going forward, and to try and make everything work.

"I have a little boy, Jack, now, and I have responsibilities. Training is, generally, a bit selfish. You work long hours for nothing, and you live hand to mouth, and that's fine. I love it, I love the horses, and I will miss it greatly. I've had so many great days.

"It's the end of the season, and a good time for the horses to move on to other trainers, and give them the best possible option going forward. 

"I've been so privileged to work in racing. Honestly, I've loved every minute of it, and I wouldn't change it for the world. We've had lovely owners who have become great friends over the years and I think, in all honesty, we've been lucky with everything that I've done. From me having my first ride under rules at Kelso, to us having our first winner as a trainer, which was Kimbambo, also at Kelso, in the Morebattle Hurdle, and, possibly, our last winner just the other day with Lucky Manifest."