The New York State Thoroughbred Breeding and Development Fund (Fund) and Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) have signed a memorandum of understanding to leverage and expand the two parties’ shared commitment regarding their respective racing and breeding jurisdictions.
Recognizing a shared interest in fostering a cooperative relationship, both parties aim to cross-promote the participation of thoroughbred breeders, owners, trainers, and racehorses across both jurisdictions. The memorandum of understanding demonstrates a mutual commitment to advancing and promoting the growth and success of both parties respective thoroughbred breeding and racing industries in key areas such as racing programs, breeding and bloodstock sales, education, employment opportunities and welfare.
Suzanne Eade HRI CEO, said: “I am delighted to sign this agreement, which is building on the existing long-standing relationship HRI has with the New York Thoroughbred Breeding and Development Fund. They are a valued industry partner and the memorandum of understanding identifies a range of objectives and goals across all facets of our industries that we can both further leverage to create a positive and mutually beneficial impact.”
New York State Thoroughbred Breeding and Development Fund Chairman Brian O’Dwyer, said: “This is great news for New York State, as it underscores the important role our Thoroughbred breeding industry plays on the global stage. We are honored to work with our partners at Horse Racing Ireland, as we have much to learn and much to share.”
| New York | Ireland | |
| No of stallions | 40 | 195 |
| No of mares | 2,144 | 15,193 |
| 2023 foal crop | 1,446 | 9,569 |
| No of racecourses | 4 | 26 |
| No of race days/fixtures | 285 | 388 |
| No of races | 2,556 | 2,877 |
Sources: New York Fact Book, The Jockey Club; HRI Factbook 2023
Horse Racing Ireland (HRI)
HRI is a commercial semi-state body responsible to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, having been established under the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act 2001. HRI is responsible for the overall administration, governance, development and promotion of the Irish horse racing industry on an all-island basis. HRI’s mission is to “develop and promote Ireland’s Horse Racing and Breeding industries, to administer and govern the sport of Horse Racing in Ireland, and to cultivate and promote the highest standards of integrity and welfare.”
The New York State Thoroughbred Breeding and Development Fund
The New York State Thoroughbred Breeding and Development Fund is a Public Benefit Corporation established in 1973 pursuant to Section 252 of the Racing, Pari-Mutuel Wagering and Breeding Law of the State of New York. The Fund oversees the registration process for New York-bred foals and New York stallions and distributes incentives in the form of awards. The Fund’s mission is to “promote by monetary incentives the responsible breeding of quality Thoroughbred racehorses in keeping with the founding legislation to preserve New York’s irreplaceable farmland.”
