Paul Hensey leaves Al Shaqab for CEO role at Association of Irish Racecourses

Paul Hensey has left his role as chief operating officer at Al Shaqab Racing and has been appointed incoming CEO of the Association of Irish Racecourses (AIR), where he will succeed Paddy Walsh.

Hensey had been working abroad within the bloodstock industry for some time, most recently with Al Shaqab, for whom he was based mainly in Qatar and France.

He worked with the Turf Club for six years and also at the Curragh where he managed the course and training grounds for almost 15 years. While at Curragh, he was an active member of AIR and was elected to serve two terms on the board.

AIR chairman Conor O’Neill said: “Following a meeting of the board, I am delighted to announce that Paul Hensey’s appointment was formally approved. Paul will take over the reins from Paddy Walsh when he retires from office at the end of March.

"I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Paul on his appointment and welcome him on behalf of the board and our members. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Paddy Walsh, who has played an integral role in the association and indeed the wider industry for decades.”

Hensey, who will start working with AIR at the end of this month, said: “I am delighted with the appointment and feel this role really plays to my strengths. I am extremely proud of and passionate about the Irish horseracing product and very much looking forward to getting involved in the racecourse side of the industry once again.

"Having been a member of the Association of Irish Racecourses for many years, I am keenly aware of the importance of the association, and the role it plays for our members.”

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