Michael Grassick to step down as chief executive of Irish trainers' association

The body representing trainers in Ireland is set to appoint a new chief executive as outgoing boss Michael Grassick has announced he will step down from the role.

Grassick has served almost ten years in the position, after taking over from Jim Kavanagh in January 2013, and will remain at the helm of the Irish Racehorse Trainers Association (IRTA) until a successor has been appointed.

He said a desire to spend more time with his family was a factor in the decision, as well as having always intended to end his spell as chief executive around this time.

Grassick said: "I've been in the position for ten years and turn 70 in November, so it was always my view, as such, to give up around this time. I'll stay on in the position until the next person is bedded in.

"There's often been a mixed view as to whether the position was a poisoned chalice or a good job, but I've enjoyed it, I really have. It's been good working with my fellow trainers. We've had plenty of challenges during my term but I think we've done our best."

Asked what he believed was the biggest challenge facing his successor, Grassick said: "I think there are a number of trainers struggling, and that's something we'd like to address. Trainers need to be valued more as I think at times they are not.

Michael Grassick: 'We've had plenty of challenges but I think we've done our best'Credit: Caroline Norris (racingpost.com/photos)

"The vast majority of trainers who turn up on raceday come away with nothing unless they have a horse collect prize-money, whereas everybody else – including the jockeys – are getting paid. I think that needs to be looked at."

Grassick departs at a time when an appeal is continuing against a High Court decision which saw the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board's security chief Chris Gordon awarded €300,000 in damages in the defamation case he took against the IRTA.

Grassick suggested in April 2020 that legal costs around the case had run well in excess of €1 million for the trainers' body.

Read this next:

Aidan O’Brien pays tribute to ‘incredibly special’ Evie Stockwell on her death

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