THE 2024 Godolphin Flying Start graduation ceremony took place in the Cape Cross Centre at Kildangan Stud in Ireland last weekend.

Invited guests included the parents of the graduating class, Godolphin management and University College Dublin (UCD) Michael Smurfit Business School representatives who have supported the Flying Start trainees throughout their two years on the programme.

Warm welcome

Godolphin Flying Start executive director Clodagh Kavanagh warmly welcomed guests and trainees’ families from as far away as the USA, New Zealand, and Australia. She spoke about the inspiration for the programme from Sheikh Mohammed and the impact of the experience on the trainees’ personal and professional lives.

Godolphin Flying Start is accredited by the University College Dublin Michael Smurfit Business School as a Graduate Certificate in Management. Academic director at UCD Smurfit Executive Development Joe Peppard addressed the assembled guests and emphasised the academic oversight of UCD and the success of the programme graduates to date.

Hugh Anderson, managing director of Godolphin UK and Dubai and trustee of Godolphin Flying Start, was highly complimentary of the class of 2024, and added: “On behalf of the global Godolphin team, I congratulate this graduating class and wish them success and encouragement for their futures in the thoroughbred industry.”

International appeal

The 2024 graduates comprised trainees from five countries. They are Alex Sausville (USA), Orlaith Nangle (IRE), Jamie Smith (UK), Susannah Jeffery (UK), David O’Farrell (IRE), Ben Triandafillou (AUS), Sarah Kelly (IRE), Megan O’Leary (IRE), Annabel Adams (NZ), Edmond Ryan (IRE) Annie O’Rourke (UK) and Liam Cunningham (NZ).

The diploma for the top trainee was presented to Megan O’Leary, who achieved the highest grade among the 2024 graduating group, attaining a Distinction award. David O’Farrell and Susannah Jeffery spoke on behalf of the class, reflecting on the experience of the two years with their fellow classmates. They thanked the guests, Godolphin Flying Start management and Sheikh Mohammed.

The next opportunity to apply for Godolphin Flying Start is December 2024.

Visit godolphinflyingstart.com for more information on the programme