Irish National Stud

Fast Facts

The Irish bloodstock breeding and racing industry is of major national importance in terms of employment (especially in rural areas) as well as in exports and tourism.

• Ireland recorded a population of 28,289 thoroughbreds in 2010.
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• Ireland is the third largest breeder of thoroughbreds in the world. In excess of 40% of the EU output of thoroughbreds and 11% of the total worldwide are produced in Ireland.
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• 7,500 thoroughbred foals were registered in 2010.
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• Approximately 17,300 people are employed in the thoroughbred industry in Ireland, mostly in rural areas and it attracts significant inward investment.
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• The gross value of the industry exceeded €0.9bn in 2010.
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• The value of Irish thoroughbred exports was an estimated €149m in 2010.
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• Over 115,000 people visit the Irish National stud and the Japanese Gardens in Tully, Co. Kildare, each year.
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• HM Queen Elizabeth II visited the Irish National Stud and two other privately-owned studs on her recent State Visit.
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• Irish jockeys, trainers and owners regularly succeed at the highest international levels.  Willie Mullins, Ruby Walsh and Gigginstown House Stud won the leading trainer, jockey and owners titles respectively at the 2011 Cheltenham Festival in England. 
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• At the same prestigious event, there were 15 Irish-bred winners overall and 22 Irish-ridden winners. Irish horses can be seen as standard-bearers for our country.
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• Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) is a state body established under the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act 2001 and representing key sectors of the industry.  It is responsible for the overall administration, promotion and development of the industry.
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• Irish Thoroughbred Marketing (ITM) is a division of Horse Racing Ireland. It is funded by Horse Racing Ireland and by the Irish bloodstock Industry, ITM provides the service and support to overseas visitors interested in the Irish thoroughbred racing and breeding industry.