Joe Foley to succeed John O'Connor as chairman of the Irish EBF

The Irish European Breeders’ Fund has named Joe Foley of Ballyhane Stud as its new chairman and Castlehyde Stud's Tom Gaffney as deputy after a recent annual general meeting.

Foley became a governor on the board of the Irish EBF, the country's largest race sponsor, in 2002 and was appointed deputy chairman in 2017, where he worked alongside the outgoing chairman, John O’Connor of Ballylinch Stud.

Gaffney has served with the body for 21 years representing Coolmore Stud and brings a wealth of experience from his role as chairman of Cork racecourse.

Foley said: "The Irish EBF board will be forever grateful to John O’Connor for his leadership, dedication, diligence and fairness over the last ten years in his role as chairman.

"He continually upheld the ethos of the Irish EBF and represented the board both at home and at a European level to the highest standards. He gave his time voluntarily to deal with EBF matters and always deliberated with both the small and large stallion owner in mind.

"He is passing on the leadership of the Irish EBF in very good health and we are delighted that he is staying on the board to help guide us into the future.”

Gaffney added: "I see first-hand how racecourses benefit from Irish EBF race sponsorship, which greatly enhances the raceday programme with added benefits for owners, trainers, jockeys and stable staff.

"I am looking forward to working with Joe on Irish EBF matters and continuing the great work carried out over the last number of years."

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