JOHN Moloney will retire as manager of Galway Racecourse following the 2015 Summer Festival, with his son Michael Moloney appointed as his successor.

Terry Cunningham, chairman of Galway Race Committee, said: “We are very grateful to John for everything he has accomplished at the racecourse. With over 25 years of service, John has overseen a significant period of development at the course, including the Millennium and the Killanin Stands as well as building the annual festival year on year. Under John, the Galway Festival has become a focal point in the Irish racing calendar for both racegoer and horsemen alike.”

John Moloney added: “I would like to thank the Committee for the support I have always enjoyed in undertaking the role here. It has been a pleasure to work with such a great team and a huge number of supporters of the racecourse. We are currently looking forward to the build up to the 2015 festival and working with Michael next year to ensure a smooth transition; therefore it is very much business as usual for now.”

Michael Moloney will join the team at Galway in April 2015 from his current position as chief executive of Plumpton Racecourse in Britain, where he has been since September 2011, originally joining Plumpton as financial controller.

A member of Chartered Accountants Ireland, he has worked with a number of companies based in Galway, and has also been involved operationally with the racecourse at Galway over the last 12 years.

Terry Cunningham, welcoming the appointment, said: “Michael brings a wealth of experience, not only in areas such as operations and finance, but also in racecourse management generally. Michael has the skills and experience to build on the legacy that John will leave, and we look forward to working with him in the years ahead.”

Michael Moloney said: “My father’s contribution has been fantastic and I feel privileged to be in a position to continue on where he will leave off next year. I am looking forward to leading such a dedicated team of people at Galway and providing the highest level of service to both racegoers and industry professionals alike.”

Originally from Knocklong, Co Limerick, John Moloney was assistant manager at Tipperary Racecourse from 1986-1988. He succeeded Captain Luke Mullins as manager of Galway Racecourse in January 1989.