AIDEN Burns, former manager of the Association of Irish Racehorse Owners, passed away peacefully last weekend in hospital in Drogheda, Co Louth.

An accountant by trade, Burns was appointed general manager of AIRO in 2004 having been involved in the association for many years.

For the next 16 years he dedicated his time and efforts to enhancing the experiences for racehorse owners in Ireland. He was instrumental in building the association to over 2,000 members and amassed a legion of friends on the Irish racing circuit and beyond during his tenure.

He stepped down in 2020 and delayed his retirement to allow the organisation time to find his successor.

Sadly, his retirement was cut short and, after battling illness bravely over the past few months, he passed away on Saturday.

A statement issued by AIRO said: “The board of directors, management and all the members were deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend and former manager, Aiden Burns.

“Aiden was a gentleman. He was committed to the betterment of Irish racing and represented owners with the highest integrity in a good humoured, kind and professional manner for nearly two decades.

“He was an avid golfer and a big racing fanatic. He combined both when organising the Black Bush Golf Club Syndicate. Among the many horses he had in training over the years with his golfing friends was Miss Orchestra, winner of the 1998 Midlands National in Uttoxeter for trainer Jessica Harrington.

“Aiden was predeceased by his beloved wife Patricia (Pat) and he will be fondly remembered for his kindness, good humour and his unfailing commitment to Irish owners.”