Beef or Salmon Celebrates 30 Years!

The Irish National Stud & Gardens celebrated a remarkable milestone as Beef or Salmon, one of Ireland’s most iconic and enduring National Hunt champions, marked his 30th birthday on the 30th of April.

The milestone brought together the people who shaped his remarkable journey, from his earliest days as a foal to his rise as one of Ireland’s most iconic staying chasers.

Breeder John Murphy and family, who set him on the path to greatness

Trainer Michael Hourigan and family, whose care and partnership defined his decade at the top

Jockeys Andrew McNamara and Paul Carberry, joined by Carberry’s family, returning to see the horse who carried them to some of their most memorable victories.

Owner Joe Craig and family.

Re-trainer Kirsteen Reid and INS longtime handler Leona Harmon.

And, of course, the many racing fans who have followed him for more than two decades and continue to visit him in his retirement

Trained by Michael Hourigan, Beef or Salmon enjoyed a glittering career spanning more than a decade, recording 19 wins, including 10 Grade 1 victories, and famously defeating some of the most celebrated champions of his era including Best Mate, War of Attrition and Hedgehunter. His Leopardstown and Punchestown triumphs remain among his most cherished achievements, showcasing the determination and power that made him a household name. After his racing career he also went on to perform exceptionally in the show ring at the prestigious Dublin Horse Show and beyond.

Beef or Salmon is a treasured member of The Living Legends Team (which also includes Faugheen, Hurricane Fly and Sizing John), and over 2 million visitors have appreciated him in his retirement at the Irish National Stud & Gardens since 2012.

Surrounded by the people who know him best and the fans who adore him, the day honoured not just a milestone age, but a lifetime of heart, courage, and connection.

Cathal Beale, CEO at the Irish National Stud & Gardens, said:

“Beef or Salmon is a true icon of Irish racing. Reaching 30 years of age is an exceptional milestone for any thoroughbred, and it’s a privilege to care for him and share him with the public. Celebrating his birthday during the Punchestown Festival and hearing such heartfelt stories from those who knew him best, makes this moment even more special. We know racing fans will join us in honouring a horse who gave so much to the sport.”

Here’s to Beef or Salmon, still a legend, still loved, and still bringing people together at 30!

Ahead of his milestone 30th birthday, National Hunt legend Beef or Salmon is pictured with Darina Walsh, Acting Chairperson Irish National Stud & Gardens, David Mongey, Incoming Chairman, National Stud & Gardens, Cathal Beale, CEO and Minister for Agriculture, Martin Heydon at the Irish National Stud & Gardens, where he enjoys his retirement. Visitors are invited to join the official celebrations with Beef or Salmon on 30th April from 11am–12pm to hear more about this remarkable horse and mark his special birthday. For further information and to purchase tickets, visit www.irishnationalstud.ie  ***NO FEE*** Photography: Conor Healy / Picture It Photography

Ahead of his milestone 30th birthday, National Hunt legend Beef or Salmon is pictured with Paul Charles (8) and Anna Mae (5) Carberry  at the Irish National Stud & Gardens, where he enjoys his retirement. Visitors are invited to join the official celebrations with Beef or Salmon on 30th April from 11am–12pm to hear more about this remarkable horse and mark his special birthday. For further information and to purchase tickets, visit www.irishnationalstud.ie  ***NO FEE*** Photography: Conor Healy / Picture It Photography

Ahead of his milestone 30th birthday, National Hunt legend Beef or Salmon is pictured with LJ Carberry at the Irish National Stud & Gardens, where he enjoys his retirement. Visitors are invited to join the official celebrations with Beef or Salmon on 30th April from 11am–12pm to hear more about this remarkable horse and mark his special birthday. For further information and to purchase tickets, visit www.irishnationalstud.ie  ***NO FEE*** Photography: Conor Healy / Picture It Photography