Ruby Walsh among stellar panel for ITBA seminar on the future of jumps racing

Ruby Walsh is among a stellar panel at the Hotel Minella on Monday for a debate on the future of the National Hunt breeding and racing sector in Ireland organised by the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association.

The seminar will cover a wide variety of issues in Irish racing and joining Walsh for what promises to be a heated discussion is fellow ITV pundit Kevin Blake, popular pundit and breeder Jane Mangan, founder of p2p.ie and RTE commentator Richard Pugh and successful breeder Frank Motherway.

The ITBA's chief executive Shane O'Dwyer is expecting an engaging couple of hours and is encouraging crowd participation.

O'Dwyer said: "The Irish National Hunt breeding and racing sector is currently in a healthy position. Buoyancy at recent sales, dominance of Irish-breds at major festivals, and the continued success of the Weatherbys ITBA Fillies Bonus Scheme are all positive takeaways.

"As with every sector, though, we need to analyse, plan ahead, highlight the challenges and maximise the opportunities. Looking back at changes and developments in National Hunt breeding and racing over the last decade, the ITBA look forward to a very engaging seminar and encourage participation from attendees with a view to action any tangible recommendations."

The doors open at 3.30pm on Monday with the seminar starting at 4.30pm. It is free to attend and you can register by emailing Una Tormey at utormey@itba.ie or calling the ITBA office on 045-877543. Supper will be provided after the event.

Download the free Racing Post app for cards, form, tips, in-app betting and to watch live races. Download for free at racingpost.com/mobile or search Racing Post app