​The third Annual General Meeting for AIRO Racing CLG took place on Tuesday 18th April in ITBA HQ both in person and by electronically via zoom.
 
Chairman David Hyland welcomed all attendees and informed them that AIRO had gotten firmly back on track last year and enjoyed a tremendously productive 2022.  He noted the focus of AIRO’s board members and management was placed on forging strong links with industry stakeholders.  He advised that they attended numerous meetings throughout the year, through the seats on HRI boards, working committees and industry meetings to discuss every aspect of the game on behalf of owners.  He paid tribute to AIRO’s former manager Aiden Burns who passed away earlier this year after a brief illness.  
 
He highlighted a number of issues affecting our industry that AIRO felt must be addressed on behalf of owners:
 
Prize-Money – This is the most essential and most worrying issue affecting Irish owners at present.  He explained in recent years we have seen increases of prize-money at the very top level of racing but the middle section in both codes have not received any increase in prize-money since 2008.  The 2022 HRI factbook states that Owners are now contributing 25% of the prize-money pot, the largest owners contribution in Europe.  HRI Chairman, Nicky Hartery and CEO Suzanne Eade have both stated in recent times that prizemoney is a priority for HRI, for the retention of owners going forward, it is essential that these prizemoney promises are delivered upon.  He noted that AIRO have written to HRI, who are currently negotiating the next media rights deal, and proposed that a portion of the new media rights deal income be ring-fenced for prizemoney and the race-day experience for owners. He asked that any increase in prize-money be better dispersed across all levels especially the middle sector which he believes is critical for the retention of owners.
 
AIR -  He expressed AIRO’s concern about the ongoing situation between racecourses in the agreement of the aforementioned media rights deal.  He noted the hopes from AIRO that Association of Irish Racecourses can a find a quick resolution to the situation and urged them to take a cohesive stand, work together and solidify the financial future for the whole industry and the 29,000 jobs involved.
 
Retention of Owners – Mr Hyland was anxious to re-iterate AIRO’s concern for the retention of owners.  He noted that the industry are heavily reliant on Racecourses to provide a Race day experience for Owners that will entice them to come back and re-invest time and time again.   He further explained that in the majority of cases, racecourses are putting in a tremendous effort and are ticking every box.  He thanked those managers and teams involved for all they do and ask that they continue their superb efforts in raising the bar.  He also noted there are some racecourses, that view owners as a drain on their resources and he took this opportunity to remind them that collectively owners are contributing between €250 - €300 million annually and through their investment are a vital cog to the success of the Irish Racing industry.  To this end, AIRO are working with other industry stakeholders to ensure a minimum standard at all racecourses.  He explained that AIRO have harnessed very good working relationships with all industry stake-holders and are working closely with them all for the good of Irish Racing.  
 
Welfare – He noted that as the representative body for owners and as owners, we are extremely cognisant of our responsibilities regarding welfare and the post-racing career of our horses.  AIRO put together a pamphlet last year entitled ‘Simple guide to responsible ownership’ reminding owners of their responsibilities outlining the various different options available to owners for an alternative career for retired racehorses.  AIRO are running a golf tournament in Mount Juliet on Wednesday 24th May, 2023 in conjunction with the trainers association with the full proceeds going to TREO EILE, the charity involved with retraining and rehoming retired racehorses.  Teams (of 4) are €850 and as there are still a few tee-times available and he called on all industry golfing enthusiasts to call the AIRO office and register a team.
 
Jacqueline Kelly from the company auditors,  SCD Accountants Ltd ran through the financial statements for 2022 and company secretary Regina Byrne reviewed the many activities for AIRO during the year and complimented the board for their participation with a special reference to our HRI Representative Caren Walsh for her selfless commitment to Irish Owners.
 
David Hyland announced that there was no election as there was one board position available and we received one nomination form duly completed and signed.  He bid farewell to our friend and comrade Bill Bourke, who resigned his seat on the board.  Bill has served on this board for many, many years in many different roles but primarily as treasurer in recent times.  He stated that Bill had embraced all of those roles with infectious enthusiasm and unfailing loyalty to Owners.  He thanked him sincerely for his immense contribution and noted that he will be sorely missed by us all.  He welcomed Mark Molloy, a highly respected Owner/Breeder and businessman from Co. Tipperary and thanked him for putting himself forward and looked forward to working together.  
 
Mr Hyland concluded by stating that AIRO will continue to grow and encouraged all owners to get involved.  He reminded Owners that third party liability insurance is included in our list of membership benefits which also includes half-price RacingTV.  He also reminded members/owners that the AIRO Marquee is available in the reserved enclosure for the Punchestown Festival, where a cuppa, some light refreshments and a welcome seat are available and encouraged members to call the office for information. He finished by noting that AIRO have an open-door policy and owners are invited to call in or phone Regina in the office should they wish to get any information.  He thanked the board of directors and management for their time and efforts and the owners for their continued support of the industry.

AIRO (Association of Irish Racehorse Owners) in conjunction with HRI Ownership will host an ‘Owners Roadshow’ at Naas Racecourse on Thursday 30th March, 2023. 
 
The purpose of the roadshow is to provide a platform for owners to ask industry representatives any questions they may have in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.  The following industry representatives will be available during racing in the tote hall under the main stand to answer all queries:
 
AIRO – Association of Irish Racehorse Owners
Find out how to join, what service AIRO provides for Owners and the various members’ benefits available to you as a racehorse Owner.
 
HRI Ownership
How to become a new owner, different types of ownership available and what an owner can expect going racing as an Owner?  The HRI Ownership team will be on-hand to provide all the relevant information.
 
Education & Training
Representatives from Equuip will advise owners on the education and training facilities that they provide for the industry along with career opportunities available within Racing.
 
Entries/Declarations and Balloting
Ever wondered what the processes are regarding entries and declarations or how the balloting system works, now is your chance to find out… HRI Entries & Declarations team are available to advise on all these issues.
 
Owners Charges
HRI Client a/c representative will advise on what charges are currently being paid by Owners and what new owners can expect to pay or any questions you have in relation to your racing account.
 
Welfare
HRI Welfare Department Representative will be available to advise owners on what procedures and plans are in place regarding horse & human welfare.  While there will also be stand representing TREO EILE, a charitable organisation who will provide information to owners regarding the retraining and rehoming of ex-racehorses and Irish Polo Crosse, who will also inform Owners of the type of thoroughbred that their members would be looking for as a post-racing option for your horse.
 
Admission is FREE for everyone and there will be sandwiches/sweet treats/tea & coffee for all owners who attend during racing.  Vouchers for refreshments will be available from the AIRO stand. 
 
We look forward to welcoming you all on the day.  Should you require any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact Regina in AIRO on 045 878173 or email [email protected].
 

​The Board of Directors, Management and all the members of AIRO were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend and former manager Aiden Burns. ​

Aiden Burns was a Gentleman.  He was committed to the betterment of Irish racing and represented Owners with the highest integrity in a good humoured, kind and professional manner for nearly two decades.
 
He was an avid golfer and a big racing fanatic and combined both when organising the Blackbush Golf Club Syndicate in 1998.  He had many horses in training over the years and the most prolific winner was with his golfing friends when Miss Orchestra won the Midlands National in Uttoxeter for trainer Jessica Harrington.
 
An accountant by trade, Aiden assumed the role of General Manager of the Association of Irish Racehorse Owners (AIRO) in 2004 having been involved in the association for many year prior to that.  For over sixteen years he dedicated his time and efforts to enhancing the experiences for racehorse Owners in Ireland, he was instrumental in building the association to over 2000 members and amassed a legion of friends on the Irish Racing circuit and beyond during his tenure.  Aiden offered his letter of resignation in 2020 and delayed his retirement to allow the board time to find his replacement.  Sadly, his retirement was cut short and after battling illness bravely over the past few months, he passed away on Saturday 28th January, 2023. 
 
Aiden, was predeceased by his beloved wife Patricia (Pat) and he will be fondly remembered for his kindness, good humour and his unfailing commitment to Irish Owners and by all his friends at AIRO and in Irish Racing.
 
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam…

The funeral arrangements are as follows:
​https://rip.ie/death-notice/aiden-burns-duleek-meath/524552/

The Association of Irish Racehorse Owners held their Annual Awards evening in the magnificent surroundings of the recently refurbished Cashel Palace Hotel in Co. Tipperary on Friday evening.
 
Racehorse owners, trainers and sponsors were joined by Minister of State Martin Heydon to celebrate the successes of Irish Owners on the racetrack in 2022.  AIRO Chairman David Hyland welcomed the guests and Minister Heydon spoke of Ireland’s global position in the Racing & Breeding industry and noted the investment that Owners and Government make to insure its continuance and congratulated all winners in his pre-dinner address. 
 
The Racing Dream award went to American Grand National winner Hewick, who despite his initial price tag has taken the world by storm much to the delight of his delighted owner T J McDonald from Co Kildare.  The Magic Lads Syndicate from Trim in Meath were honoured with the Syndicates/Racing club award for the exploits of Magic Chegaga in Galway during the summer.  Homebred’s Kyprios and Homeless Songs were responsible for the Owner/Breeder award going to Moyglare Stud Farm’s owner Eva Maria Haefner Boucher.  The new Owner Award this year went to Owners Noel and Valerie Moran’s Bective stud while the Champion owners National Hunt and flat were JP McManus and Mrs John Magnier.
 
The Irish sales companies were tasked with selecting their respective Sales Selection award.  Goffs selected the Ger Lyons ownership combination of Sean Jones, David Spratt and Mrs Lynne Lyons as their winner while Tattersalls Ireland chose Derby Sale graduate Honeysuckle’s owner Kenneth Alexander as their sales selection. 
 
Another new award category to be introduced this year was the overseas owner aimed to celebrate foreign owners who choose to have their horses trained in Ireland.  The first winners of this award was Cheveley Park Stud following their tremendous successes with national hunt superstars like Allaho, Sir Gerhard and Cheltenham Gold Cup winner A Plus Tard to name a few of their winners for trainers Willie Mullins and Henry deBromhead.  
 
HRI’s Vicki McWey, who works closely with owners in the registration department was awarded the services to the industry award for her dedication and hard-work in ensuring that all Owners needs are facilitated in a good-humoured and professional manner.  The sponsors award was also introduced this year so Owners can show their appreciation to sponsors who support the racing industry.  Ireland largest sponsor the Irish EBF were deserved winners and John O’Connor was on hand to accept the accolade.
 
AIRO members were asked to select the winner of the Racecourse award and the overwhelming winners this year was Naas Racecourse.  Owners noted their friendly staff, fantastic atmosphere and exceptional owners facilities, great food and viewing areas as just some of the reasons for their selection and Naas Racecourse director David Cox accepted the award on their behalf.
 
The final two people awards were very special, Mrs Maureen Mullins, Matriarch of Ireland finest racing dynasty was awarded the Racing Personality award while John and Susan Magnier were honoured as the first inductees into the Irish Owners Hall of Fame.
Our sponsors for the evening included Mount Falcon Estate, Darley Ireland, ITBA, Coolmore Stud, Irish Thoroughbred Marketing, Goffs, Tattersalls Ireland, Connolly Red Mills, HRI Ownership Dept, Oghill House Stud, The Irish Field and Ballylinch Stud and Weatherbys Ireland.  Their sponsorship was paramount to the success of the evening and we are eternally grateful for their support.  AIRO would like to thank the commentator on Racing TV for their assistance in the selection process of some of the award winners.  Richard Pugh was tasked with the role of master of ceremonies and was ably assisted by Jane Mangan who was on interviewing duties of award winners.  
 
Award winners were presented with a fabulous charcoal portrait of their horses by artist Jason O’Ceannobhain while the people awards were presented with beautiful bespoke pieces by sculptor Linda Hoyle.
 
AIRO’s awards committee chaired by Vice-Chairman Caren Walsh with fellow directors Richie Galway, Sandra Fox and Manager Regina Byrne were responsible for putting together such a great evening of celebration.
 

AIRO were delighted to once again sponsor the Dundalk Winter Series for 2021/22.  This series is highly competitive every year and this season was no different.  We sponsor two categories each year for the Horse with most Points and the Horse with most wins.

Owner & Tyrone GAA superstar Conor McKenna took the title for Horse with most points having accumulated 45 points with his horse No Speed Limit pictured above with AIRO's Acting Chairman David Hyland.  This horse was a model of consistency all season for Conor's trainer and Dad Pat McKenna and we congratulate them on their success.

The Horse with Most wins for the winter series was Adams Barbour who is owned by Dr David Adam and trained in Co. Down by Lee Smyth.  This was a very competitive contest and Adam's Barbour prevailed with 4 wins and 42 points, a remarkable achievement.  Dr Adam was unavailable on the night but was very well represented by Lee Smyth's wife who rides out Adam's Barbour every day and their two boys.

AIRO Racing CLG would like to wish all Owners the very best of luck at Cheltenham and hope all the horses & riders come home safe and sound.  #greencorner

The Association of Irish Racehorse Owners held their flat Awards at Naas Racecourse yesterday on the concluding day of the Flat Season.  These Awards acknowledged the fantastic achievements of Irish Flat Owners whose horses excelled on the racecourse this season.  Sponsors for the event were HRI Ownership Dept, the ITBA and The Irish Field.
 
The Leading Owner and Champion Horse awards were determined by Horse Racing Ireland and went the way of Mrs John Magnier and St. Mark’s Basilica owned by Mr Derrick Smith, Mrs John Magnier & Mr Michael Tabor.  Jamie Moriarty representing the connections accepted the award on their behalf.  
 
The following awards were selected by an independent panel consisting of all the Irish Racing TV pundits:
Owner Breeder Award – HH Aga Khan – Tarnawa – Pat Downes received the award on behalf of HH Aga Khan.
Syndicate /Racing Club Award – Kildare Racing Club – Sonnyboyliston, Liam Clarke received the award on their behalf.
Value Purchase at Goffs Award – Miss C R Holmes - Laws of Indices
Value Purchase at Tattersalls Ireland – Mrs Caroline Hendron & Mrs Mairead Cahill - Helvic Dream 
Racing Dream Award – Mr Patrick Moyles - Logo Hunter
 
The final two awards presented on the day were people awards selected by AIRO’s Awards Committee.  The first was a Special Achievement Award to Mrs Jackie Bolger in respect of the remarkable classic winning victories on the track of both Poetic Flare and Mac Swiney this season, both bred, trained & owned by Mrs Bolger and her husband Jim.  
 
Brian Kavanagh received the Services to the Industry Award in recognition of the tremendous work he had done at the helm in Horse Racing Ireland for 20 years.  In a lively chat with MC Brendan McArdle, Mr Kavanagh informed the group that he was looking forward to his new role as CEO of the Curragh and looked forward to hosting all the owners in the future.

We also held a Fantasy Forecast competition during the day and Martin Walsh was the overall winner on 46 points.
 
AIRO together with HRI Ownership Dept sponsored a meal voucher for all stable staff on the day as a token of gratitude for the dedication and hard work given every day looking after our horses.  
 
The next awards day will take place on Sunday 5th December at Punchestown Racecourse where we look forward to hosting all the winning National Hunt Owners.

​AIRO Racing CLG held its first Annual General Meeting as a company limited by guarantee on Thursday 26th August, 2021.  The meeting was held remotely via the online zoom webinar platform.   As per the constitution, six directors had to step down with option to put themselves up for re-election and all current members were invited to put themselves forward for election if they so desired to join the board of directors.  
There were 8 available places on the board and we received 10 nomination forms resulting in an election.  Two sitting company directors John Power and James Gough chose not to put themselves forward for re-election and we thank them for their contribution to the organisation over the years.
 
The voting process was conducted online whereby members could cast their votes remotely both prior to and at the meeting itself.   The newly elected Board of Directors members are as follows:
 
Sam Dunwoody
James Fenton
Sandra Fox
Richie Galway
Kevin Power
Richard Pugh
Patrick Roche
John Weld
 
We thank all candidates who put themselves forward for election and were heartened by the online response from members, who came out in their droves to support their chosen candidates.  We are really excited with the new board and the future of our association looks safe and secure.  The blend of youth and experience will ensure that owners continue to be represented with the best intentions and to the best of our ability.