SENIOR figures from the racing and bloodstock world will discuss industry issues at an important event in Kildare on Thursday, November 9th.

The 2017 Gain Equine Nutrition and Alltech Equine Summit, supported by Grant Thornton and The Irish Field will take place in the Keadeen Hotel, Newbridge.

It will bring together the thoroughbred and sport horse sectors of the industry in a day-long series of presentations and discussions with equine experts and industry leaders.

The event will kick off with a welcome address from Glanbia Group chairman Henry Corbally followed by a keynote address from founder and president of Alltech, Dr Pearse Lyons. Equine industry statistics will be presented by Grant Thornton.

A plenary discussion on the equine industry in Ireland will form the central part of the day. This will be chaired by Leo Powell, Editor of The Irish Field, and feature Brian Kavanagh (CEO Horse Racing Ireland) Ronan Murphy (CEO Horse Sport Ireland), Noel Cawley (chairman Teagasc) and Meta Osborne (Turf Club senior steward).

Attendees will then have the opportunity to attend a breakout session to explore topics more specific to the thoroughbred or sport horse sides of the equine industry.

Tickets for the event cost €55 and are available to purchase online.

Henry Corbally said: “We are delighted to partner with Alltech, Grant Thornton and The Irish Field to host the Equine Summit, a unique occasion to bring together the thoroughbred and sport horse sides of the equine industry. The event reinforces Gain’s commitment to the equine industry, while supporting our customers and the industry at large.”

Pearse Lyons added: “I have been curious about what the Irish equine industry could do and I hope the Equine Summit will address new opportunities for this industry. I look forward to speaking at this gathering.”

Leo Powell said: “The importance of both the thoroughbred and sport horse sectors to Ireland’s economy is incalculable. Together they are worth some €2.5 billion and provide huge direct and secondary employment throughout the island. Thissummit will highlight that importance.”

Sasha Kerins added: “Grant Thornton are delighted to be involved. We aim to provide industry-led insights to our clients and contacts across both the thoroughbred and sport horse sectors.”

Additional speakers will be announced closer to the date.

Book: eventbrite.ie (search ‘equine summit’)