THE Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Associartion presented its 2023 Southern Region Awards at Cork Racecourse earlier this month.

MC Kevin O’Ryan was joined by local hero Jimmy Mangan who entertained guests with stories of his career in racing and breeding and chatted about his hopes for new stable star Spillane’s Tower.

ITBA Southern Region chairman Gerry Aherne said: “We had a great day recognising the achievements of our breeders.

“Every breeder at every level has a chance of breeding a good horse and we are delighted to be able to award them. We would also like to thank Lynda Fraher and the team at Cork Racecourse for all their work in ensuring we all had a great day.”

ITBA Southern Region Award Winners

Chaser: The Real Whacker -

Bernadette Keane

Hurdler: Stay Away Fay - Southeast Bloodstock and Owen Hickey

National Hunt: Thunder Rock - Olivia Hegarty

Small NH Breeder: Conflated - Kevin Dillon

Two-Year-Old: One Look - Tullpark Ltd/William Kennedy

Three-Year-Old: The Antarctic -

Ballyphilip Stud/Paul McCartan

Overseas Horse: Fev Rover - Manister House Stud/Luke Barry

Small Flat Breeder: Magical Sunset and Basil Martini - Alice Fitzgerald

Special Recognition: Marnane family

Contribution to the Industry:

Peter Kenneally, The Beeches Stud