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Thursday, May 22, 2025
HomeHorse BreedingTitle: Rising Awareness of Mental Health Support in Irish Horseracing Industry The...

Title: Rising Awareness of Mental Health Support in Irish Horseracing Industry

The Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board’s chief medical officer Jennifer Pugh says she has seen a rise in the number of people seeking mental health support but attributes that to the cultural shift that has taken place within racing and wider society.

Pugh was speaking in the wake of Mental Health Week, an initiative that is of particular relevance to the racing and breeding industries based on recent studies.

A 2021 study funded by Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) found that 80 per cent of jockeys in Ireland met the threshold for at least one mental health disorder, such as depression, anxiety or adverse alcohol use.

“I think the success of awareness campaigns and a cultural shift has led to a rise in the number of people coming to us,” said Pugh. “A lot of that came post-Covid and the challenges that people would have had after that.

“People would come to me within the industry that I’d never have dreamt would have a problem. I don’t think that would have happened a generation ago, so there’s definitely been a shift. In the weighing room as well, people are more comfortable talking about mental health issues. The barriers of stoicism are breaking down.”

Following the study Equuip, the education and training department of HRI created a jockey pathway which provides riders with coaching and mentoring services as well as career guidance and financial literary advice. Now the HRI are hoping to do something similar for those working in stables.

“We currently have two PhD research students looking at the mental health of stable staff and trainers, and the mental health in the breeding sector,” said Stacey McDonnell, industry welfare coordinator at Equuip.

“The research is really important to know what sort of programmes to put in place to help those really important stakeholders in a more targeted way.

“Currently, those seeking help can avail of our Industry Assistance Programme, which is a 24-hour helpline. It is a free service which anybody in the industry can call. It’s not just for crisis moments, it’s also available for financial and legal advice.”

The mental health of stable staff was sadly brought to the fore again with the death of Billy Moffatt, the 20-year-old Lambourn stable lad who died suddenly this month.

“When you look at the long working hours, the career progression and the travelling required of stable staff, it’s a hard job and there’s more work to be done in the area of mental health support for them,” said Pugh.

“I would reassure them that industry bodies are looking at that space, with HRI driving it. However, if anybody working as staff in the racing industry approaches me, Equuip or any of the amazing charities outside racing, they will certainly be signposted in the right direction and they will get help.”

Jennifer Pugh, the chief medical officer of the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board, has noted an increase in individuals seeking mental health support within the racing industry, attributing this trend to a cultural shift and heightened awareness around mental health issues. This change has been particularly evident post-COVID, as more people feel comfortable discussing their struggles, a stark contrast to previous generations. A 2021 study revealed that 80% of jockeys in Ireland met the criteria for at least one mental health disorder, highlighting the urgent need for support.

In response to these findings, the education and training department of Horse Racing Ireland (HRI) has initiated programs like the jockey pathway, which offers coaching, mentoring, and financial advice. Efforts are also underway to extend similar support to stable staff and trainers, with ongoing research aimed at understanding their mental health needs. The HRI has established a 24-hour Industry Assistance Programme, providing free help not only for crises but also for financial and legal issues.

The recent tragic death of a young stable lad has underscored the importance of mental health support for stable staff, who face demanding working conditions. Pugh reassured those in the industry that support systems are being developed and emphasized the availability of resources through HRI and external charities, encouraging individuals to seek help when needed.

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Title: "Paardenveilingonline Launches May Auction Featuring Elite Sport Horses and Exclusive Embryos"

Paardenveilingonline launches its May auction with an exceptional collection for sport horse enthusiasts and breeders. A total of 32 carefully selected horses will go under the digital hammer: 18 young showjumpers, 6 proven sport horses, 7 exclusive embryos, and one approved pony stallion. From experienced 5- to 8-year-old sport horses ready for the next step in their careers, to promising 3- and 4-year-olds at the beginning of a bright future – this auction offers something for every ambition.

This edition marks the last young horse auction of the year at Paardenveilingonline. Following this, three foal auctions are scheduled, with the next young showjumpers only returning in December. That makes now the perfect time to get ahead of the competition.

For over five years, Paardenveilingonline has successfully connected sellers and buyers worldwide with quality showjumpers. Each collection is curated with a sharp eye for pedigree, talent, and potential. With this final opportunity before the summer, Paardenveilingonline once again reinforces its reputation as a trusted partner for future stars in the sport.

Phynaedra E.C. – Cornet Obolensky x F-One USA (2020, mare) – Top sire Cornet Obolensky is paired here with a strong performance dam line, resulting in the striking Phynaedra EC, who passed her EPTM test last year with 78 points.

Secret Power SIH – Heartbreaker x Diamant de Semilly (2022, mare) – This genetic gem shows great promise for both sport and breeding. She is a direct daughter of Grand Prix stallion Heartbreaker, a legendary sire of international showjumpers.

Shakira – Kassander van ‘t Roosakker x Andiamo (2022, mare) – The oldest offspring of the highly valuable Kassander van ‘t Roosakker are breaking through at top level, including Picobello van ‘t Roosakker, Kalamoun Hero Z, and Kasbah Queen Hero Z.

Prima Donna – I’m Special de Muze x Libero H (2020, mare) – This elite mare demonstrated her natural talent at age four by passing the KWPN mare test.

Shanna Balia van Koldaard – Chatinue x Numero Uno x Burggraaf (2022, mare) – An interesting young mare from the renowned Balia dam line, which has produced generations of successful sport horses.

Patrick – Highway TN N.O.P. x Cidane x Orame (2020, gelding) – Under Willem Greve, sire Highway TN has proven himself repeatedly, with victories in the World Cup of Leipzig, the Rolex Grand Prix of Den Bosch, and the Grand Prix of Rotterdam.

Wildcard: Meulenkolk’s Jack – Heidehoeve’s Gouverneur x Heidehoeve’s Berlin (2022, stallion) – This promising New Forest stallion commands attention and has a bright future ahead. Approved this spring at the stallion licensing in Rheinland.

This collection once again includes several exclusive embryos that offer the opportunity to elevate your genetic foundation. For example, how about an already implanted embryo by Grandorado TN, out of a daughter of the newly crowned Dutch Champion Pretty Woman van ‘t Paradijs?

The collection also features six other premium embryos with bloodlines from Chacco-Blue, United Touch, and Comme Il Faut – a unique opportunity for breeders with an eye for top-level genetics.

The complete collection is available on the Paardenveilingonline website, including videos and detailed information on all 18 young horses, 6 sport horses, 7 embryos, and one approved pony stallion – an exclusive opportunity to acquire high-quality talent at realistic prices.

After free registration, buyers gain access to all veterinary reports and X-rays, enabling confident and informed bidding.

The auction is now open for bidding and closes this Saturday from 8:00 PM (CET). Don’t miss this unique chance to add a world-class addition to your stable or breeding program. The Paardenveilingonline team is happy to assist you with your purchase. Visit the website and place your bid today.

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