The bond between American and Irish Thoroughbred industries continues to deepen, with a noticeable increase in American owners basing their horses in Ireland for training. This trend, fueled by expanded turf programs in North America and the rich opportunities available in Ireland, has led to significant success for many transatlantic partnerships.
Turf Expansion and New Opportunities
The growth of turf racing in North America has been a key driver in encouraging the export of turf-bred runners, especially those with placed form eligible for lucrative maiden races. This has, in turn, opened American owners’ eyes to the diverse racing landscape in Ireland. For instance, Medallion Racing, alongside partners Barry Fowler, Steve Weston, and Dean Reeves, experienced a remarkable journey with the G1-winning filly Porta Fortuna. Initially, the plan was to race her in the US, but her exceptional performance dictated a different path.
Porta Fortuna’s Rapid Ascent
Trained by Donnacha O’Brien, Porta Fortuna’s trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric. After a private purchase following her maiden victory at the Curragh, she secured wins in the G3 Fillies’ Sprint Stakes at Naas and the Albany Stakes at Royal Ascot. Further strong performances in the Phoenix and Moyglare Stud Stakes paved the way for her impressive victory in the prestigious G1 Cheveley Park Stakes at Newmarket. Phillip Shelton, Principal at Medallion Racing, outlines their strategy: “It’s very horse-specific for us as to how we best maximise the return for our partners, both financially and in terms of experience. When we came to Porta Fortuna we had a very clear strategy. The plan was to go to the G3 at Naas, and if we won there then, financially, we’re basically at our break-even point. The plan after that was to run at Royal Ascot before coming to America. Luckily for us she’s been so good that there’s been no reason to entertain the thought of coming to America, with the exception of the Breeders’ Cup.”
The Irish Advantage: Opportunities and Affordability
Ireland offers a compelling balance of extensive racing opportunities and relative affordability for horse training. Ten percent of the Irish racing program boasts black type status, providing investors with numerous chances to compete for valuable prizes and enhance their horse’s market value. Furthermore, the average monthly cost for a horse in training in Ireland, including all fees and veterinary bills, is approximately €1,900 ($2,100). Many international investors mitigate financial exposure by forming partnerships.
Success Stories Across Disciplines
Craig Bernick, an American owner with a significant presence in both breeding and racing, has also found considerable success in Ireland. His string of horses with Irish trainers includes One Voice, a winner of the G3 Blue Wind Stakes and runner-up in the G1 Nassau Stakes trained by Jessica Harrington. Bernick’s owner-breeder approach is exemplified by Aspen Grove, trained by Fozzy Stack. Foaled in Ireland by an American sire, Aspen Grove secured G1 success at Belmont Park after winning the G3 Newtownanner Stud Stakes in Ireland.
Bernick emphasizes the significant residual value generated by achieving black type status in European races. “If you win a turf race in America, yes you get the prize-money but you don’t build the same credentials for your filly, or the family you’re trying to develop. That’s why we race in Ireland,” he explains. He also highlights the strong sense of community and the quality of horsemanship in Ireland.
The collaborative environment in Ireland fosters strong relationships between owners and trainers. Bernick notes, “I think the value you create when you win or get black type in good races in Europe is pretty significant. That’s really the key.” Shelton echoes this sentiment, stating, “You’re more part of a team, as opposed to just being with a specific trainer. Donnacha is there and has his hands on the horses every day. In America that just doesn’t happen because of the way it’s set up geographically.” This daily involvement and consistent communication contribute to a positive user experience, making the inherent challenges of racing more manageable.
A Growing Trend in Jumps Racing
American ownership in Ireland extends beyond the Flat. The New York-based partnership of Aidan Shiels, Donal Gavigan, and Niall Reilly celebrated a significant victory with Good Time Jonny in the Pertemps Network Final at the Cheltenham Festival. Additionally, Rod Moorhead of Buttonwood Farm, a Pennsylvanian owner, has invested heavily in young Irish-bred jumping stock. Pierre Manigault from South Carolina acquired Cape Gentleman with trainer John ‘Shark’ Hanlon, aiming to replicate the success of his great uncle, who won the Grand National in 1923.
As the US turf program continues its expansion, Ireland is increasingly becoming a crucial nursery for Thoroughbreds and a vital arena for competition. Despite the geographical distance, the racing worlds of the US and Ireland have never been more closely connected.
• Visit the Horse Racing Ireland website
