Exclusive Interview With Mr Paddy Power
Recently we bagged an exclusive interview with Mr. Paddy Power (yes, he’s a real person!) the Communications Manager for the Irish bookmaker of the same name. We talked to Paddy about this years Grand National, his favourite sporting moments and results that had him crying in to his Guinness.
Would you prefer Ireland to win the Rugby World Cup or FIFA World Cup?
A: Ireland to win the Rugby World Cup.
Gold Cup or Grand National?
A: Greedy, but both!
Ruby or AP?
A: Both legends, but just AP.
Nina Carberry, Katie Walsh or Hayley Turner – You know what we mean?
A: I presume we’re talking horsemanship… has to be Nina.
Favourite horse of all time?
A: Moscow Flyer.
What’s been the best day of your life?
A: 18th Dec 2005, clicked a yankee… oh and my first kid was born.
What’s the best sporting event you’ve ever attended?
A: Ireland v England, (Rugby) Croke Park 2007.
What five people (from history or today) would you invite to dinner?
A: Silvio Burlesconi, Muhammad Ali, Jesus Christ, George Best, Russell Brand (pre rehab!).
Your worst day as a bookmaker – What result had you weeping?
A: Don’t Push It’s National was one of the worst results ever, but I roared him all the way home. All the connections deserved it..
Paddy Power offer novelty bets on movies specials. We’ve had films about Seabiscuit and Secretariat – isn’t it time for a Red Rum Movie?
A: Why not… I’d watch it!
Do the Paddy Power staff dread Grand National day?
A: No, the big days are what it’s all about – we may work here but we’re punters too!
Why do you think other bookies pull their bonus bets on Grand National day?
A: They’re afraid of being too busy (doesn’t make much sense, does it?)
What next for Paddy Power gorilla marketing
A: If I told you, I’d have to kill you!
Are Aintree course changes ruining the Grand National race?
A: No it’s still a great spectacle, although a 4 1/2 Mile flat race wouldn’t be great.
Would Paddy Power be interested in sponsoring the National?
A: Stranger things have happened but we probably couldn’t afford it!
Are Channel 4 up to the job of broadcasting the National?
A: Of course, they’ll ace it.
Do you think Phil Smith weighted the horses fairly this year?
A: No, but I’m Irish so I have to moan about the ratings!
How do you choose which horse to back – stats and trends or gut instinct?
A: I love following course form and trainer form.
If you had only one bet for the 2013 National who would you back?
A: Colbert Station.
I’ve decided to loan you some cash – who else are you on?
A: Seabass will be 2nd, Lion Na Bearnai 3rd, On His Own 4th & Join Together 5th.
100/1 winners are rare – are there any long shots you fancy?
A: Probably not but if something like Tofino Bay ran, he’d be worth a look.
If you fancy backing any of Paddy’s choices for the 2013 Grand National why not take advantage of this bonus bet offer and get a better deal for your money!
