Sarah McCarthy – ITBA member

Background: Sarah graduated last year having studied economics and Spanish alongside doing some part-time work for Limerick and Leopardstown racecourse and has recently obtained a CIPD qualification. Sarah always had

an interest in horses having been an active member of the Limerick pony club as a child and the Limerick Harriers for many years.

Sarah joined the ITBA because she was looking to break into the racing industry. After doing some research online, Sarah contacted the ITBA, who were very helpful and offered lots of information on the ITBA and the events that they run. Sarah became a member and this career event led by Justine Negri was the first event she attended.

Mark Lynch – HRI intern

Background: A former amateur jockey, Mark is currently studying digital marketing in Athlone. Having worked in a number of different racing yards since completing his leaving certificate in 2008, Mark recently decided to undertake further study. Mark always wanted to make it as a jockey but knew that he wouldn’t be able to do that forever and felt the need to consider what he could do after. Combining his passion for horses with something he could do for the rest of his life was very important to Mark.

Mark applied for the HRI internship so that he could get some practical marketing experience in the equine industry.