D.J. HISTON (pictured) will succeed Conor O’Neill as chairman of the Association of Irish Racecourses [AIR] at the end of this year.

Following a vote by racecourses this week at their annual general meeting, the Clonmel Racecourse manager was elected to replace the Punchestown CEO, who has served two consecutive four-year terms as AIR chairman.

AIR is the racecourse representative body and holds a seat on the board of Horse Racing Ireland. It also plays a major role in the negotiation of the sale of media rights for live Irish racing.

Histon, who has a long history of working for Clonmel Racecourse and the Irish Coursing Club, said: “I thank the membership sincerely for placing their trust in me. It is a genuine honour to be appointed chair of AIR, and it is one I do not take lightly. I am fully committed to building on the excellent work of Conor O’Neill, putting the membership at the centre of all negotiations on matters that relate to them, acting with integrity and diligence, and ensuring that, despite the many challenges we face, promoting a cohesive and united approach that will have the greatest impact for Irish racecourses and racing alike, led by our CEO, Paul Hensey.”

Galway Racecourse boss Michael Moloney has been appointed vice-chairman of the Association, taking over from Ballinrobe’s John Flannelly. Ruth Morrison of Downpatrick and Aidan McGarry from Naas have been appointed as directors of AIR for the first time.

Also at this week’s AGM, Richard Lyttle received an honorary membership of the Association, having previously served as racecourse manager at Navan and Downpatrick.