LAST Friday, in brilliant sunshine, 30 students from 12 countries graduated from the Irish National Stud Thoroughbred Breeding Course. The ceremony took place at the historic Tully, Kildare stud farm and saw parents, friends and representatives from the thoroughbred industry gather to celebrate the awarding of certificates and prizes.

The gold medal was awarded to Nicholas Cope from Co Tipperary, while Poppy Walton from Oxfordshire in England received the silver medal. She also was awarded first place in the veterinary examination.