OWEN Byrne has succeeded Sue Phelan as manager of Tramore Racecourse.

A Waterford man, he has been involved in racing for 20 years and has a background in marketing and event management. He comes to Tramore from Horse Racing Ireland where his projects included Irish Champions Weekend and race sponsorship strategy.

He has owned racehorses for 15 years including 2010 Grade 1 winning chaser An Cathaoir Mor.

Next Thursday’s student raceday will be his first fixture in charge at Tramore.

“We have some exciting developments in the pipeline,” he said. “Current improvements include the redevelopment of the stable yard with our next race meeting being the first one that will use 20 new stables as part of this €450,000 development. We’re also looking at developing a new grooms’ canteen and veterinary boxes.”