Aidan McGarry will succeed Peter Killeen as the general manager of Navan Racecourse, Horse Racing Ireland announced Wednesday.
Killeen is retiring next week following a career that spanned 40 years in Irish racing. Having joined the Racing Board in 1980, he was involved in the introduction of the Computote betting system adopted by the Tote in the late 80s and was instrumental in the introduction of more recent advances in on-course Tote betting and technology.
Killeen was appointed manager of Tote Ireland operations in 1999 and held that position for 15 years before taking on the role of Navan general manager. He is to remain as an independent director on the board of the Association of Irish Racecourses (AIR).
“It's hard to believe that it's 40 years since I walked through the doors of the Racing Board's offices on Merrion Square, it really does feel like only yesterday,” Killeen reflected. “My first role was preparing the perforated Tote tickets that some people might remember!
“Perhaps people today might shudder at the thought of staying within a specific industry for such a time, but it afforded me opportunities to work in a variety of roles as the industry changed and adapted over the years. I've been very lucky in all that time, I worked with so many great people and many more great characters! Thanks to them all.
“I'm delighted with Aidan's appointment and I know that he will be a great addition to what is a fantastic team at Navan.”
McGarry, who has held a number of managerial roles within Horse Racing Ireland and Irish Thoroughbred Marketing, will assume his new role Mar. 29.
He said: “I can't thank Peter Killeen enough for the help and guidance he has given me as I prepare for this exciting new challenge. Navan is renowned as a top-class racecourse and the strength of the racing programme, both National Hunt and Flat, is a particular draw for me. I'm joining a great team and am very much looking forward to working with everyone at Navan.”
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