NAAS Racecourse is searching for a new general manager following the decision by Eamonn McEvoy to take up the position of Bloodstock Sales Director with Tattersalls Ireland. At Tattersalls, McEvoy replaces Richard Pugh who has moved to a new role with Horse Racing Ireland.

Dermot Cantillon, chairman of Naas Racecourse, said he was sorry to see McEvoy move on after almost five years in the job. Naas has received an award from the Association of Irish Racehorse Owners in each of the past three years and was also honoured by Horse Racing Ireland in 2020. “Eamonn is a people person and he is always looking to be positive and constructive,” Cantillon said. “He remains a great friend of Naas and we wish him well.”

Prior to his tenure at Naas, McEvoy served as racing and stud manager for Rick Barnes of Grangecon Stud for eight years. He also worked in stud farms in England, the USA and Australia, as well as Saudi Arabia where he worked as assistant manager under the late Michael Buckley at Prince Sultan Al Kabeer’s racing and breeding operation, playing a pivotal role in the development of a new racetrack for Prince Sultan.

Simon Kerins, CEO of Tattersalls Ireland, said: “Eamonn’s extensive leadership experience and proven ability to drive change and improvement within the industry make him an invaluable addition to our team. Having regularly dealt with Eamonn while he was racing and stud Manager at Grangecon Stud, I can lay testament to his professionalism and knowledge. He is also extremely well regarded throughout the industry. On behalf of all the team at Tattersalls Ireland, we welcome Eamonn to his new role and look foward to working with him.”

McEvoy, who will commence his new position in early May, commented: “I am honoured to be joining Tattersalls Ireland, especially at such an important time of the year with the Tattersalls Ireland Breeze Up Sale and the store sales fast approaching. The company has a proud history with a diverse calendar of sales which continue to go from strength to strength and I’m looking forward to working alongside the well-respected teams at Fairyhouse and Newmarket. I’ve enjoyed a fantastic time at Naas Racecourse and would like to express my gratitude to the board and team there and wish them continued success going forward.”