PUNCHESTOWN racecourse announced on Thursday that Dick O’Sullivan will step down as general manager following a 16-year term in the role. He will be replaced by Conor O’Neill. Racing manager Richie Galway will maintain the role on a part-time basis but will take on a permanent position in Commonstown Racing to support the expansion and success achieved by his mother-in-law Jessica Harrington, sister-in-law Kate and his wife Emma.

Tralee native O’Sullivan has guided Punchestown through difficult times to what is now a profitable business. When O’Sullivan joined as interim manager, on a six-month basis, the first development programme had recently been completed. However, financial difficulties, the loss of the 2001 Festival due to foot and mouth, and drainage issues had left the racecourse in turmoil.

It was a baptism of fire for O’Sullivan but his arrival heralded a new era. During his tenure he has overseen the extension of the Festival from four days to five, seen prizemoney increased to over €3 million, while attendance records have been regularly broken. The culmination of O’Sullivan’s leadership was the completion of the capital development plan and the construction of the new Hunt Stand. Renovation and building works carried out at the home of Irish National Hunt racing over the last two years leaves the Kildare venue in a strong position for generations to come.

O’Sullivan will remain in a newly created executive role as president of Blackhall Racing and continue to be involved in the day-to-day running of the business.

“I am excited to be joining and supporting a hugely exciting business in Commonstown, but it’s been a difficult decision to take a step back from Punchestown which I have enjoyed so much for the past 20 years,” Galway said of his new challenge. “I have been privileged to work with the team here and will continue to support in any way I can. On a personal level, Dick has been a phenomenal leader, mentor and friend throughout his time and I wish him well in his retirement - although I think that will mean he plans to be in Punchestown three days a week instead of five!”

O’Sullivan commented: “During my years here Richie has been my right hand man. He has been an outstanding asset and the track is a testament to his dedication. The board agreed unanimously that he was the logical successor; however family is the strongest bond that there is and Richie has decided to join a vibrant and successful team in Commonstown. I am delighted that he will be staying on in the vital role of racing manager.”

He added: “Along with Richie, I have been very lucky to work with the best team of people anyone could ever wish to have, and all that’s been achieved throughout my time is really due to their ability and hard work. The board is keen that my successor should be from within to maintain the unique dynamism that exists, and we are so fortunate to have Conor O’Neill, who was recently elected chairman of AIR, available to fill the position. He has a wealth of experience in the industry and is also a former manager of Limerick racecourse”.

David Mongey, chairman of Blackhall Racing, said: “In Punchestown’s 200-year history not many people, if any, have contributed as much to the racecourse’s success as Dick has and it has been a privilege working with him throughout that time. I would also like to congratulate Conor O’Neill on his appointment and we are delighted to be in a position to have such a seamless transition.”