Séamas O'Reilly: I’m not saying they’re lying, but why would it take 312 fellas to lower Shergar into the ground?

The disappearance of the racehorse Shergar, kidnapped by the IRA in 1983, has become a subject of enduring jokes and speculation, particularly in Derry, where locals often claim to know the horse's burial site. A documentary, "Shergar: The Racehorse and the IRA," delves into this infamous case, attempting to clarify the facts behind the legend.

The film highlights Shergar's extraordinary racing career, showcasing footage of his dominant 10-length victory at the 1981 Epsom Derby, a record that remains unsurpassed. It also provides context on the factors contributing to the excellence of Irish racehorses, such as skilled horsemanship, favorable tax arrangements, and high-quality grazing land.

"Shergar: The Racehorse and the IRA" also offers a brief overview of Ireland's political landscape in the 1980s, a period marked by high unemployment and the prominence of horse racing in national discourse. While the documentary includes insights from historians like Diarmaid Ferriter and Ivan Yates, the narrative sometimes feels condensed, adopting a nostalgic tone.

Examining the kidnapping itself, the documentary points out the apparent lack of robust security measures surrounding Shergar, who was valued at approximately £10 million (around £35 million or €40 million today). The film questions the IRA's ability to execute the daring raid without firing a shot, suggesting that the operation may not have been as complex as commonly believed.