The programme's aim was to develop skills and knowledge of young enthusiasts in the thoroughbred industry. In 2024, there will be two levels of this scheme: one for individuals aged 18-30, and another for transition year students. ITBA's Internship will be a year long, fully paid internship offering two successful candidates invaluable experience working in three different industry areas for four months each. In addition, there will be two types of internship–one focusing on office placement and the second a practical placement with hands-on stud farm experience. The placements will begin in August and will be divided into three placements as follows:

• Placement 1: August 2024 – December 2024
• Placement 2: January 2025 – April 2025
• Placement 3: May 2025 – August 2025

The ITBA Junior Internship 2024 will target secondary school students before their transition year and is for ages over 16. A short health and safety and basic handling course will be offered to those individuals. There will also be several opportunities to shadow ITBA's Next Generation Committee during

sales days, race meetings and other industry events.

ITBA Chairman Cathy Grassick said, “We are delighted to develop ITBA's Internship for 2024 and think this a fantastic opportunity for anyone who has a passion for the thoroughbred industry. The scheme is a great way to help develop skills and network with industry leaders, as well as encouraging the next generation into the industry. The placements and people you meet offer an invaluable experience in the industry.

“We are looking forward to introducing two different levels of the scheme, as well as developing the Una McElroy Business Internship. This was a project that was very close to Una's heart and it is very fitting that this Internship will honour her memory.”

Applications for both the 2024 Internship and Junior Internship Schemes will begin on Monday, Apr. 15, with interviews held in May and June. For more information and full details, please visit the ITBA website. Applications must be submitted to Nextgen@itba.ie prior to the close of business on Friday, May 10.

The post ITBA Next Generation Internship Scheme Relaunched appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

Source of original post

Heads were hurting but hearts were still soaring after an evening celebrating all that is great about the Irish bloodstock industry. And it was a truly great night, but one which naturally started on a sombre note as the gathered guests bowed their heads in a few moments of silence to reflect on the passing of the ITBA chief executive Una Tormey last month at the age of only 41.

It wasn't the only part of the evening to bring a lump to the throat. The Next Generation Award was presented a little later on to Amy Marnane, who is the embodiment of unbridled enthusiasm, just like her dad, Con. He was there of course, eyes welling with pride, along with Amy's sister Olivia and members of the extended Marnane family. The one absentee was Con's wife Theresa, who died in December and, like Tormey, is much missed by her many friends in the business and beyond. 

By 2am in the hotel bar, Con and Amy were taking turns on the microphone, and if her endeavours in the bloodstock world ever fail her (they won't) Amy could easily fall back on a career as a singer. It was a night of celebration, and people who know Con Marnane even only in passing, will realise that he takes that approach to life on most days. The recent months will surely have been tough on the family without Theresa in their midst, but there is no better way to honour her memory than by continuing to live life to the full. On Sunday night she would have been especially proud of her eldest daughter, who is a shining example to all young people coming into this industry.

“She was a sponge to soak up information. By five or six she knew every horse by their sire and dam,” said Con in the tribute video to Amy before adding with a grin, “I'm not really surprised…She learnt from the best.”

The best was what Sunday night was all about. From the top jumps prospects, many of whom will return to the Cheltenham Festival in a fortnight's time, to the potential breed-shapers of the future on the Flat, Ireland's equine stars and the people who made them were duly celebrated. 

“We are delighted to have Minister Pippa Hackett join us again for this year's awards and we thank her and her government colleagues for their continued support,” said ITBA Chairman Cathy Grassick in her opening address. 

“We are honoured tonight to recognise the outstanding achievement of Irish-bred horses, both Flat and National Hunt, during 2023. This is our opportunity to celebrate their outstanding successes in a year which Irish thoroughbred talent was on display to a global audience once more. It is also an opportunity to acknowledge those who have made a lifelong contribution to Irish thoroughbred breeding and our people awards are well deserved and a testament to the wonderful people we have working in our industry.”

Willie Austin, who will forever be associated with the brilliant, prolific jumper Danoli (Ire), claimed the Small Breeder Award for the year in which Danoli's relative Blazing Khal (Ire) heaped more glory on the family with victory in the G2 Boyne Hurdle.

We will hear more from David Bowe in tomorrow's edition of the TDN after the Littleton Stud manager was given the Wild Geese Award, which is annually handed out to an Irishman or woman who has forged a successful career in the bloodstock industry beyond Ireland's shores. 

Bill Dwan summed up what many people feel about Bowe when he said, “He's an absolute gentleman. I don't know anyone in the business who has a bad word to say about him. It's not ever about David; it's about the horses, it's about Jeff [Smith, Littleton Stud owner].”

Stitch-up of the year goes to the ITBA's awards organising committee, who managed to pull the wool over Leo Powell's eyes. For many years Powell, the former editor of the Irish Field, has been the compere on awards night. This year he was told that the recipient of the Special Contribution award had been kept top secret, and indeed it had been, to the degree that Powell had no idea that the award was coming his way until he was hijacked on stage, expecting to read out someone else's name. 

The warmth of feeling for Powell within the racing and breeding industry was summed up beautifully by Jacqueline Norris in another of the heartwarming videos that the ITBA team does so well. “He's incredibly interested in the people that make up this business. He's kind, he's considerate, he thinks about people,” she said. “Leo Powell is pure class.”

There was also widespread approval for this year's inductees to the ITBA Hall of Fame. Referred to regularly as a “power couple”, the husband-and-wife team behind Tinnakill House, Dermot Cantillon and Meta Osborne, are the worthy new names on that illustrious roll of honour, which also includes Meta's late father, Michael Osborne.

Their great friend Alan Byrne paid tribute to the couple, with plenty of leg-pulling in his humorous address. He said, “What a team, what a partnership: in business and in life. I'm in awe of what they do, and also the skills they bring to their partnership: expertise in pedigrees, conformation judgement, strategic thinking, commercial nous, rigour and an unwavering commitment to hard work – and, look, Dermot brings something to the partnership as well.

“Above all, I would say that Dermot is an enthusiast. With Dermot, the glass isn't just half full, there's about to be so much liquid in evidence that more glasses need to be bought as quickly as possible. He loves the life and he loves the game.”

In almost 20 years at Tinnakill House, the couple has bred four Group 1 winners in Casamento (Ire), Alexander Goldrun (Ire), Red Evie (Ire) and, most recently, State Of Rest (Ire).

Byrne also highlighted the time and devotion they have committed to the industry above and beyond their own farm and in many roles, including Cantillon's chairmanship of Naas racecourse and Osborne's stint as senior steward of the Turf Club, as well as their encouragement of young people starting off in the business. 

“They only ever want the best for the Thoroughbred industry in Ireland,” added John P Byrne.

As Leo Powell conducted an interview on stage with the 'wild goose' David Bowe, who was clearly choked with emotion at being honoured by his peers and countrymen, he asked Bowe for one parting piece of advice for young folk keen on getting involved in the bloodstock business. 

“Immerse yourself in it, get involved in it and stick with it,” offered Bowe.

They are words that can just as well apply to racing and breeding, or indeed the ITBA Awards evening. Don't go there thinking that you will be able to get an early night. Roll with the emotion, sing, dance and enjoy everything that is worth celebrating about this wonderful life. 

ITBA National Breeding & Racing Awards Winners

Chaser of the Year 2023
Shishkin, Breeder: CJ & EB Bennett

Hurdler of the Year 2023
Marine Nationale, Breeder: JB Bloodstock   

National Hunt Race Mare 2023
Marie's Rock, Breeder: Dan Breen

Young National Hunt Horse 2023
A Dream To Share, Breeder: Brucetown Farms

Small Breeder 2023
William Austin 

Two-year-old Filly of the Year 2023
Porta Fortuna, Breeder: Whisperview Trading Ltd

Two-year-old Colt of the Year 2023
Henry Longfellow, Breeder:  Coolmore 

Three-year-old Filly of the Year 2023
Mawj, Breeder: Godolphin 

Three-year-old Colt of the Year 2023
Auguste Rodin, Breeder:  Coolmore

Older Horse 2023
Mostahdaf, Breeder: Shadwell Estate 

Next Generation Award 2023
Amy Marnane 

Wild Geese Award 2023
David Bowe

Contribution to the Industry 2023
Leo Powell

Hall of Fame 2023
Dermot Cantillon and Meta Osborne 

The post Lauding the Best in the Business on a Night of Sheer Emotion  appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

Source of original post

The event was hosted by Kevin Blake, a well-known racing analyst and broadcaster as well as being a reputable breeder in his own right. He was joined on the panel by former ITBA chairman Dermot Cantillon, the breeder of multiple Group 1 winners at Tinnakill House Stud, plus Irish National Stud CEO Cathal Beale, Helena Burns of Anglesey Lodge Equine Hospital and Loughtown Stud, bloodstock agent Matt Coleman and Barry Mahon, Juddmonte's general manager in Ireland and European racing.

A variety of themes were up for discussion as the panel talked all things breeding, from what they look for when buying a mare to the general health of the industry and where it might be years from now.

A recording of the event will be available through the ITBA in the coming weeks. The ITBA will also soon be launching their 'Ask The Expert' series which will take place online during March, April and May, providing the opportunity to hear from different figures in the industry on a wide range of topics.

The post ITBA Breeding Seminar Plays Host to Industry Experts at Goffs appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

Source of original post

Originally formed in 2008 and known as Young ITBA, the Association's junior wing enjoyed a lively year with a number of well-attended events taking place. 

Most recently, a National Hunt Panel Discussion took place at Tattersalls Ireland, preceding the May Store Sale. Other activities held included a Pinhooking Panel Debate held at Goffs, a Stallion Tour to Coolmore and Castlehyde Studs and a table quiz that was held in conjunction with the Irish National Stud at which all monies raised were donated to Treo Eile.

Commenting on her time as Chairperson, Donworth said, “I was delighted to take on the role of Chairperson of ITBA's Next Gen and am grateful for all the hard work of the Committee which made the last 12 months a huge success. A huge thanks to Chairperson Cathy Grassick and the ITBA for the opportunity to re-launch its junior wing.”

ITBA CEO Una Tormey commented, “The ITBA's Next Generation has always been an integral part of ITBA activity and I am very grateful to Orla and the Committee for the drive and commitment they have shown over the past 12 months to reignite activity.

“From informative panel discussions to networking events the Committee put together a comprehensive plan which catered for young breeding and racing enthusiasts. I look forward to seeing the ITBA Next Gen continue to grow under the Chairmanship of Conor Wixted and the Committee for the next year and would encourage those who have not yet got involved to do so.”

The post Wixted To Take Over From Donworth As ITBA Next Generation Chairman appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

Source of original post

The seminar featured a panel of top experts–Kevin Blake, Stuart Boman, Ado McGuinness, Jason Morris and John Oxx, with ITBA Chairman Cathy Grassick taking on hosting duties.

The discussion–Sprinters, Stayers and Everything in Between–analyzed breeding for different distances to suit market demands, as well as changes in trends over the past number of years and what the future might look like. The panel's lively discussion included points on varying trends within the Flat breeding and racing sector, international markets, balancing speed versus stamina and market demand.

“Distance horses are still speedy horses,” champion trainer and Staffordstown Stud Director John Oxx said. “Carrying speed for longer is what we are trying to produce. The superior athletic specimen.”

ITBA Chief Executive Una Tormey said, ”A huge thanks to the Curragh Racecourse for facilitating ITBA's Flat Seminar and to our great panel for giving up their time ahead of a busy Derby Festival weekend. The discussion provided some valued insights into all matters pertaining to the current trends around breeding for markets demands. Those in attendance provided plenty of comments and questions throughout the afternoon and the debate was well balanced and informative. There were lots of food for thought and plenty of key items were discussed. I would encourage those who missed the event to watch it back via ITBA website.”

The Seminar can be viewed in full by visiting the ITBA website or YouTube Channel.

The post ITBA Flat Seminar Spurs Lively Distance Discussion appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

Source of original post

Set for the Curragh Racecourse, the seminar will begin at 2:30 p.m. To register, please email hmarks@itba.ie. The event is free to attend for ITBA, AIRO, and IRTA members, please quote your membership number or organisation when registering. For non-members who wish to attend there is a €15 entrance fee which includes raceday admission.

The post Diverse Panel To Feature At ITBA Flat Seminar appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

Source of original post

A panel of speakers consisting of Kevin Blake, Stuart Boman, Ado McGuinness, Jason Morris and John Oxx are slated to be in attendance, and the event will be hosted by Sally Ann Grassick. The seminar will cover a variety of challenges and opportunities around the Flat breeding and racing sector, the current status of Irish Flat breeding and racing and look at the changes in trends over the past number of years, as well as the current race programme and sales markets. Attendees will be able to engage directly with industry stakeholders throughout the day.

ITBA Chairman Cathy Grassick said, “A huge thanks to the Curragh Racecourse for their continued support to breeders and for facilitating this seminar. I am excited at the prospect of hearing from our expert panel on all issues relevant to our industry.”

To register, please email hmarks@itba.ie. The event is free to attend for ITBA, AIRO, and IRTA members. Entry for non-members is €15. For more information, please visit the ITBA website.

The post ITBA Flat Seminar Set For June 30 appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

Source of original post

Set to take place at ITBA headquarters in Kill, County Kildare, the series will include a comprehensive group of seminars focused on stud farm and bloodstock administration, and building your bloodstock business. The ITBA has collaborated the year with Aoife Hanratty's PA Solutions and business growth advisors, Gateway

Consultants to help deliver this comprehensive content. The ITBA Summer Series Schedule is as follows:
• June 6: Stud Farm Administration from 2-4:30 p.m., ITBA HQ
• June 7: Bloodstock Industry Businesses from 2-4:30 p.m., ITBA HQ
• June 8: Health and Safety Training from 1:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m., ITBA HQ
• 1:30-3 p.m.: Fire Safety Training
• 3:15-4:45 p.m.: Chemical Safety Training
• 5-6:30 p.m.: Manual Handling Training
• June 21: Building Your Own Bloodstock Business from 2-5 p.m., ITBA HQ

To reserve a seminar spot, contact the ITBA headquarters or visit the ITBA website.

The post ITBA Summer Series to Launch in June appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

Source of original post

O'Connor, who has also been Chairman of the Irish EBF and ITBA in the past, said, “I am delighted to take on the Chairmanship of the EBF in its 40th year. The EBF plays a significant role in supporting the racing industry at many levels. Due to the calibre of stallions that now stand in Europe and through the commitment of stallion farms large and small, the EBF contributes more to prize-money than ever at a time when it is of crucial importance with costs rising rapidly for all participants in racing. I will aim to continue and build on the excellent work of my predecessor Philip Freedman and I look forward to working with Kerry Murphy and the team.”

The post Ballylinch Stud’s John O’Connor New Chairman Of The European Breeders’ Fund appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

Source of original post

The support is in addition to the €100,000 from Horse Racing Ireland through the Foal Levy. Established in 2013, the scheme's aim was to enhance the prices of fillies at store sales and encourage breeders to return their fillies in training. The Weatherbys ITBA NH Fillies Bonus scheme pays out €5,000 to any eligible filly who wins their mares-only maiden bumper, maiden hurdle and beginners' steeplechase. The scheme has awarded more than €2.8m in bonuses to winning connections over the past nine years. The entry fee is €200 for 2024 with each filly having the opportunity to win €15,000 in addition to prize money.

“ITBA and its National Hunt Committee are delighted with the commitment of Goffs and Tattersalls Ireland towards the Fillies Bonus Scheme,” ITBA NH Committee Chairman William Flood said. “Both sales companies have been huge supporters of the initiative from the outset. The additional support, together with the commitment of €100,000 from Horse Racing Ireland through the Foal Levy will ensure the future of the scheme and will enable National Hunt breeders and owners to benefit for keeping their fillies in training.”

Henry Beeby, Goffs Group Chief Executive, added, “Goffs has a rich heritage in NH racing and sales so it was very easy for us to offer increased support to this superb ITBA initiative.”

Simon Kerins, Tattersalls Ireland CEO, said, “This initiative has proven to be a huge success since its inception in 2013, and we are proud to play our part in encouraging breeders and buyers to return their fillies to training and enhancing their residual value. We look forward to working with Una Tormey and her team at ITBA, Goffs, Horse Racing Ireland, Weatherbys, and The Irish Field to further develop and grow this important scheme for the benefit of breeders and owners.”

The post Sales Companies to Support ITBA NH Fillies Bonus Scheme appeared first on TDN | Thoroughbred Daily News | Horse Racing News, Results and Video | Thoroughbred Breeding and Auctions.

Source of original post