 There was a sense of occasion at The Curragh Racecourse last weekend as the first Classic meeting of the Irish flat season unfolded under glorious sunshine. At the home of champions, an enthusiastic crowd was treated to a superb two days of racing, showcasing the very best of Irish talent alongside international competition. Gstaad Delivers Classic Success in the 2000 Guineas The feature on day one, the Irish 2000 Guineas, provided a fitting centrepiece as Gstaad delivered a Classic success for Aidan O'Brien in the familiar colours of Derrick Smith, Mrs John Magnier and Michael Tabor. It was a standout performance on a day dominated by jockey Ryan Moore, who recorded a superb four-timer. Moore got the meeting off to a flying start aboard Sergei Diaghilev, landing the opening two-year-old maiden for Westerberg and the Coolmore partners. He later partnered Commanche Brave to victory in the Weatherbys Ireland Group 2 Greenland Stakes for Donnacha O'Brien and owner Muhaideb A. AlMuhaideb. Moore and Aidan O’Brien combined once again in the Group 3 Gallinule Stakes, where Causeway showed admirable determination to hold on for victory. Elsewhere on the card, local trainer Dermot Weld saddled Purview to take the Listed Orby Stakes for owners Juddmonte. The premier handicaps provided competitive and entertaining contests, with Perry Mason, trained and owned by Maurice Ahern, making all under Leigh Roche. Gavin Cromwell’s Invincible Will secured the second handicap for Andrew and William Treacy. The second premier handicap saw a dramatic finish, with Eddie Lynam’s Headmaster getting up late to win in the colours of his brother John Lynam. The finale went the way of Joseph O'Brien, as Count Bezukhov landed the three-year-old maiden under Dylan Browne McMonagle, completing a double on the day for him and Westerberg. International Flair and Ballydoyle Brilliance on Day Two Day two brought further quality, headlined by two Group 1 contests. The Tattersalls Gold Cup saw the British raider Almaqam strike for the UK under Kieran Shoemark for trainer Ed Walker, adding an international dimension to the weekend. The Irish 1000 Guineas, however, returned to Ballydoyle, with Precise delivering an impressive performance under Wayne Lordan for the Coolmore partners. This success completed a treble on the day for Aidan O’Brien, who also saddled Sun Goddess to win the opening two-year-old maiden and Great Barrier Reef to capture the Group 3 Marble Hill Stakes, all ridden by Ryan Moore. Paddy Twomey enjoyed Group 2 success as City of Memphis took the Lanwades Stud Stakes for the Zinlo Syndicate under Billy Lee. Joseph O’Brien was back among the winners as Green Carrera landed the mile handicap in the colours of Simon Munir and Isaac Souede. Andy Oliver’s Pretty Omagh Girl claimed the second handicap, while the meeting concluded with Westminster Moon providing Tony Martin and owner John Breslin with a fitting success under Seamie Heffernan. A Positive Outlook for Irish Racing It was a fantastic weekend of racing, and the management and team at the Curragh deserve tremendous credit for the quality of the event and the experience delivered. The new three-year prize-money plan is already having a visible impact. With the Curragh adding to prize-money levels across the weekend, comparisons with leading jurisdictions such as France, particularly at black-type level, are now increasingly positive, a welcome development for Irish racing. AIRO would also like to acknowledge the continued support of Tattersalls, sponsors of the Owners’ Lounge at the Curragh, which continues to provide an excellent facility for owners. All in all, the opening Classic meeting of the Irish season delivered on every level, competitive racing, strong international representation and a lively atmosphere. Well done to all involved
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 As discussed at our recent AGM, AIRO cited owners experience at racecourses as one of their main priorities for 2027. We have circulated the attached survey to all members via email and in order to ensure that our engagement with the relevant stakeholders on this issue is evidence-based and balanced and to gather detailed feedback on your experiences and expectations. We have arranged a meeting with AIR, HRI and the trainers association in the coming weeks and this will allow us to move the discussion forward on the basis of clear data rather than anecdotal commentary. We would really appreciate your participation and about 5 minutes of your time to complete.
Closing date to complete is Thursday 28th May, 2026 AIRO & IRTA were delighted to once again host the annual Owners & Trainers Golf Classic at the majestic Mount Juliet Estate Golf Club, bringing together owners, trainers and industry participants for a fantastic day both on and off the course. This much-anticipated event continues to grow in popularity each year and, importantly, serves a vital purpose, raising funds for Treo Eile. As two organisations deeply committed to horse welfare, Treo Eile remains a natural and fitting beneficiary, providing an invaluable platform for the retraining and rehoming of former racehorses. Strong Support from Across the Industry A total of 17 teams took part on the day, including one enthusiastic group who travelled all the way from California to compete The participating teams included:
AIRO & IRTA would like to sincerely thank all teams for their support, participation and the great spirit shown throughout the day. Grateful Thanks to Our Sponsors The success of the Golf Classic is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors. Tee-box sponsors included: Poolcourt Engineering Ltd, Davy Stockbrokers, Doherty Ryan & Associates, Tattersalls Ireland, The Irish Field, Irish Equine Centre, Eleanora Kennedy, Martin Gowing, Caren Walsh, SCD Accountants Ltd, Maurice Power Solicitors, Irish EBF, Fornaughts Stud, SES Equine Veterinary Services, Gordon Elliott Racing and AIR. Our 10th hole sponsors, who kept golfers refreshed along the way, were: Brendan & Angela Scully (BS Medical Supplies Ltd), HH Aga Khan Studs, Ballylinch Stud, Anglesey Lodge Stud and Thrive SVG. We are extremely grateful to all sponsors for their continued support and generosity. Prizes and Competitions A fantastic selection of prizes was on offer:
Sincere thanks to Mount Juliet Estate Golf Club, Jason O’Ceannobhain and Dubarry for their generous sponsorship. Additional competitions included:
Prizes for these competitions were kindly donated by Elm Park Golf Club. Goody bags were provided courtesy of Character Print Solution Ltd, with contributions from Treo Eile, AIRO and Naas Racecourse. A number of pull-out prizes were also awarded on the day, with thanks to Home Store & More and Peter O’Reilly for organising. Results on the Day Congratulations to all our winners: 1st Place – Oghill House Stud David Hyland, Tom Molomby, Martin Booth & Donal Booth Score: 107 points 2nd Place – IHRB Brendan Groarke, Andrew Ring, Pat Kelly & Brendan Madden Score: 104 points 3rd Place – Goffs Tadgh Dooley, Shane Power, Cathal Gorman & Charles Shanahan Score: 102 points A Day to Remember While a few passing showers made an appearance, they did little to dampen spirits, with all participants enjoying a superb day of golf, camaraderie and shared purpose. Events such as this highlight the strength of the racing community and the willingness across the industry to come together in support of an important cause. AIRO & IRTA would like to thank everyone who contributed to making the day such a success, the players, sponsors and organisers alike. We look forward to building on this year’s success and welcoming everyone back again. Roll on 2027.  Winning Team: Oghill House Stud - David Hyland, Martin Booth, Donal Booth & Tom Molumby  2nd Team - IHRB - Brendan Groarke, Brendan Madden, Andrew Ring & Pat Kelly  3rd Team - Goffs Team - Charles Shanahan, Shane Power, Cathal Gorman & Tadhg Dooley  Longest Drive Winner - Jack Galway (Punchestown Team)  Nearest the Pin Winner - Terence Sheehan (Mountmassey Syndicate Team) The Sixth Annual General Meeting of AIRO Racing CLG took place on Tuesday 12th May, bringing members together to reflect on the past year and to address the key issues currently impacting owners across Irish racing. While a number of important topics were discussed, one issue emerged clearly as a priority the experience of owners at racecourses. Owners’ Experience a Key Priority Chairman David Hyland emphasised that concerns regarding the treatment and overall experience of owners at certain racecourses continue to be raised consistently by members. While many racecourses provide an excellent standard of hospitality and engagement, it is evident that this is not uniform across all venues. In particular, some smaller tracks are falling short of the expected standards. Owners are fundamental to the sport, and it is essential that they are treated with the respect and recognition they deserve when attending race meetings. AIRO has previously been involved in the development of minimum standards for racecourses, through guidelines produced in conjunction with Horse Racing Ireland. However, it is clear that these standards are not being consistently adhered to. In response, AIRO will:
Progress on Prize-Money AIRO has remained actively engaged with Horse Racing Ireland and industry stakeholders in recent months, contributing to the development of the newly announced three-year prize-money strategy. Importantly, the strategy also ensures that owners now have a formal and ongoing role in prize-money discussions, strengthening transparency and collaboration across the industry. Welfare and Responsibility Equine welfare remains a central focus for AIRO and the wider industry. Members are reminded of the importance of maintaining the highest standards of care for their horses, both during their racing careers and in retirement. Adherence to all regulatory and administrative requirements is also essential. Maintaining these standards is critical not only for the wellbeing of our horses, but also for the continued support of Government and the long-term sustainability of the industry. Growing AIRO and Supporting Owners AIRO continues to grow and develop as an organisation, with a strong focus on supporting and representing owners at every level. Members are encouraged to:
Looking Ahead The AGM provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on progress made and to identify areas where further work is required. Improving the racecourse experience for owners will remain a key focus in the months ahead, alongside continued engagement on prize-money, welfare, and broader industry matters. Richard Galway, James Fenton and Christy Grassick were all deemed elected as board members while Sam Dunwoody was ratified in the role of Treasurer. It was also agreed at the AGM that given the continuing rising costs to run the association the annual subscription will be increased in 2027 to €110. He concluded by thanking the Board of Directors for their voluntary commitment and acknowledged the ongoing work of AIRO’s management, before reiterating the Association’s core mission: To ensure that owners are properly represented, supported and respected at every level of Irish racing. The 2025/26 National Hunt season came to a close, as always, at the Punchestown Festival and what a fitting finale it proved to be. Over five days, members were treated to a superb spectacle of racing, with top-class performances, memorable milestones and a fitting celebration of the season just gone. Once again, JP McManus was crowned Champion Owner following another outstanding campaign, while Willie Mullins capped a remarkable week by retaining his Champion Trainer title, fresh from an incredible haul of thirteen winners across the festival. AIRO were delighted to once again host members in the Owners & Trainers facility throughout the week. It proved to be a hugely enjoyable and successful few days, with members experiencing a number of winners and sharing in the unique atmosphere that Punchestown consistently delivers. Festival by the Numbers
Mullins Masterclass Willie Mullins once again dominated proceedings, saddling 13 winners for 12 different owners, highlighting both the depth of his yard and the spread of success among his ownership base. His tally included 6 x Grade 1 victories, 1 x Grade 2, 1 x Grade 3 and 2 x Listed wins A remarkable achievement and a key factor in securing yet another Champion Trainer title. Local Success Stories The Punchestown Festival always turns up a host of winners and the local trainers and owners were, as ever, to the fore. Ian McCarthy enjoyed a standout week as Fountain House struck twice at the festival. Ross O’Sullivan trained both the first and second in the lucrative Connolly’s RED MILLS Hurdle while his father-in-law, Ted Walsh, also made a welcome appearance in the winner’s enclosure when Adrienne won in the colours of his wife Helen. Sean & Bernadine Mulryan’s charge Abbeyglen won on the opening day for Martin Brassil and Jessica Harrington saddled two winners during the festival, Powerful for JP McManus and Quinto Do Lago for the QDL Partnership. Peter Fahey saddled Avalo to win for local owners Seamus Perry, Brian Larkin and Bernadette Leigh while another local Padraig Roche took the 4YO grade 1 hurdle with Saratoga. Notable Milestones Jockey Mark Walsh recorded his 900th career winner aboard Dinoblue and he also signed off his retainer with JP McManus in style, partnering Saratoga to victory in a Grade 1 on the final day. Owner/trainer Bill Durkan was deservedly inducted into the Punchestown Hall of Fame, recognising his long-standing contribution to the sport and his sponsorship and commitment to Punchestown racecourse. His son, Neil Durkan, provided a fitting family moment by winning the charity race, bringing the festival to a memorable close. Another fact worth noting was the 21 UK based trainers who made the trip to partake in this years’ Punchestown festival, Harry Derham won the grade 1 novice hurdle with Le Firmeur for Simon Munir and Isaac Souede on the second day. A Festival to Remember While the racing itself was exceptional, the true highlight of the week was the seamless execution of the event by the team at Punchestown Racecourse. With bumper crowds in attendance, high-quality racing and outstanding entertainment throughout, the festival once again set the benchmark for National Hunt racing. It was a fitting conclusion to a superb National Hunt season and one that will live long in the memory for all involved. Take a bow, Team Punchestown!  
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