Andrew Hogan leaves Cork manager role to focus on Tipperary all-weather project

Cork racecourse is on the lookout for a new manager after current boss Andrew Hogan announced he will depart the track to focus solely on his existing managerial role at Tipperary racecourse.

Hogan has overseen operations at Tipperary since September 2013 and Cork since May 2016, but has decided to step away from the Mallow venue in light of a new all-weather track being built at Tipperary.

Plans to revamp the Limerick Junction track with a new surface have been delayed as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, but Horse Racing Ireland chief executive Suzanne Eade suggested earlier this year that the all-weather course could be operational towards the end of 2024.

Hogan has described the project as having the potential to make Tipperary "one of the best tracks in Europe, if not the world".

Hogan said: "It's with a heavy heart that I'm leaving Cork but with upcoming developments at Tipperary, I don’t believe I can give Cork the attention it deserves.

"I've had an incredible six years there, the highlight must be delivering the new seven-furlong straight course, which is world-class.

"None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of a progressive board, led by [chairman] Tom Gaffney, and an hard-working and committed team at Cork who have been a pleasure to work with."

Hogan will continue to have general responsibility for both tracks while the search for his Cork replacement is ongoing.

His departure from Cork means that Gowran and Wexford boss Eddie Scally is now the only dual racecourse manager in Irish racing.

Speaking on behalf of the Cork racecourse board, Gaffney added: "We wish Andrew continued success with the developments at Tipperary racecourse. We will now commence the process to find someone who can match his enthusiasm and commitment so there is a smooth transition."

Read this next:

The Racecourse Prices Index: how much for food and drink at Tipperary?

'I hope this racecourse will be reborn' - Worcester development in the pipeline

The Front Runner is our latest email newsletter available exclusively to Members' Club Ultimate subscribers. Chris Cook, a four-time Racing Reporter of the Year award winner, provides his take on the day's biggest stories and tips for the upcoming racing every morning from Monday to Friday. Not a Members' Club Ultimate subscriber? Click here to join today and also receive our Ultimate Daily emails plus our full range of fantastic website and newspaper content