CORMAC Breathnach from Renmore in Galway is the new director of sales operations with Keeneland. He succeeds another Irishman, Geoffrey Russell, who announced his retirement in April following 25 years with Keeneland.

Breathnach studied biotechnology at NUI Galway and moved to Kentucky in 1995 to take up an internship with animal nutrition company Alltech.

He was awarded a doctorate in veterinary science from the Gluck Equine Research Center at the University of Kentucky before leaving academia to work directly with thoroughbreds.

He began selling stallion nominatons for Adena Springs in 2009 and spent eight years there before taking up a similar role with Airdrie Stud.

Breathnach also founded Galway Bloodstock, a consultancy that has provided a range of services including auction representation, racehorse management and matings analysis.

His new boss Tony Lacy, Keeneland vice president of sales, said of Breathnach: “I have long admired his professionalism, knowledge and integrity, which is second to none, and have had the pleasure of watching him develop in the industry and gain the respect of a broad range of professionals.

“His skill set, personality and strong work ethic will help evolve Keeneland sales for the future. In addition, his background in research and animal welfare is a valuable asset as we continue to strive to set higher standards for the industry.”

Breathnach said: “Keeneland is a world-renowned cornerstone of the thoroughbred industry, and to participate in its progressive mission under (Keeneland president and CEO) Shannon Arvin, Tony Lacy and the talented team already in place, is a privilege.

“I have spent the last 12 years working with breeders, consignors and buyers on behalf of two of the preeminent stud farms in the Bluegrass, and I am excited to carry those relationships through to this new role.”