Racing and stud visits part of ITBA educational programme for 2018

The Irish Thoroughbred Breeders' Association (ITBA) has unveiled details of its Educational Programme for this year, which will cover topical issues such as GDPR requirements, health and safety, managing staff, sales preparation, veterinary issues, financial planning and stud farm office administration.

The programmes are available to all industry stakeholders including breeders, stable staff, jockeys, horse trainers and veterinarian professionals.

A day at the races at Naas and a visit to the Irish National Stud are also planned for later in the year.

As a result of ongoing financial support from the Department of Agriculture, the ITBA is in a position to heavily subsidise the costs for those who attend, which provides a significant saving to its members.

This year's programme aims to highlight the many benefits there are for industry professionals in taking a smart approach to how they go about their business.

"It's all about stud farm owners being fully abreast of the current challenges, requirements and legislation, which will facilitate and support quality thoroughbred breeding production," said Kerry Ryan of the ITBA.

"It will also highlight the need to safeguard Ireland’s most revered disease-free status as well as the need to provide a safe working environment for all.

"With everybody being so busy, the ITBA wishes to convey to breeders and stud farm owners the benefits of working smarter as opposed to working harder.

"While the 2018 educational programme is comprehensive and wide ranging, the ITBA always encourages suggestions from its members in terms of topics and issues they would like to be included."

Anyone seeking further information should contact the ITBA on +353 45 877543, or by emailing Kerry Ryan at kryan@itba.ie.

ITBA drive to attract young people into the breeding industry

There are also plans to revamp the ITBA's current apprenticeship programme to give further opportunities to young people.

Anyone seeking further information should contact Issy Crosse of the ITBA at icrosse@itba.ie or on +353 45 877543.