Horse Racing Ireland CEO to step down after 20 years

The governing body for Irish racing is seeking a new CEO, with Brian Kavanagh to step down in September.

Ireland.- Brian Kavanagh has announced he will step down as CEO of Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) as of September.

Kavanagh has overseen several major changes during his 20-year tenure in charge of Irish racing’s governing body, including the implementation of Ireland’s updated betting tax framework, which closely follows the system introduced in the UK in 2014.

His tenure also saw an increase in revenue from Irish racing. Off-course betting duty receipts collected in 2019 generated €95m. 

Kavanagh, who has led the HRI since its foundation, also oversaw the industry through the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, which saw Irish racing closed to spectators. 

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Kavanagh said: “It has been a privilege to serve as chief executive of Horse Racing Ireland and to work under three different Chairmen who each promoted a strategic vision for the Irish horse racing and breeding industries.

“It is a sector full of variety and of really talented people and I have nothing but good memories of the projects and people that I have dealt with on the way.

“Last week was a good week for racing, but we cannot rest on our laurels and there is much work to do between now and September.

“While Brexit and Covid-19 are currently providing significant challenges, there are wonderful opportunities facing the sector also. Our horses and our people are our greatest strength.”

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HRI chairman Nicky Hartery said: “Brian was the first CEO of Horse Racing Ireland when appointed in 2001, and during his time he has played a huge role in Irish racing and breeding, enabling it to become a leader on the global stage while domestically overseeing the growth of a vital rural-based industry.”

Applications for the CEO post will be open until April 19.