IN exciting news for young eventers, the George Mernagh Memorial Fund Ltd (GMMF) is increasing total funding awarded to the Eventing Ireland Youth Committee (EIYC) for 2024 to €60,000.

The George Mernagh Memorial Fund Limited (The ‘GMMF’), established in memory of the late George Mernagh, continues to honour his lifelong dedication to equestrian sports. George began his career in horse racing as an amateur (Qualified Rider), securing 27 winners in point-to-points between 1978 and 1984.

From there, he then went on to be a successful professional jockey and later became the Managing Director of Tattersalls Ireland. Renowned for his expertise in equestrian disciplines, George enjoyed significant success in three-day eventing and showing.

GMMF awarded the EIYC €40,000 for various innovative supports in 2023.

This year, due to the remarkable success of the programme, EIYC has been awarded an additional €20,000. This substantial boost will significantly benefit young riders through various channels, including subsidised Regional Training Programmes with High-Performance Trainers accessible locally to all Youth members.

Bursaries are being offered to encourage riders of all levels to attend their first international event.

Additionally, a one-time bursary will be awarded to an Under-25 member aspiring to turn professional, aiming to bridge the gap between youth programmes and the professional sphere.

There is also funding for a Youth Exchange initiative, covering a high-performance manager and team groom. The Youth Exchange travelled to Saint Quentin last year and, while the exact location for 2024 has not been decided yet, it will be an international event in the autumn.

This opportunity is available to all Youth members.

Fleur Creed, Treasurer of the Eventing Ireland Youth Committee, commented: “The future of our sport lies with our youth. The alignment between GMMF’s objectives and ours has been incredibly beneficial.

“With their generous support, we have created a pathway of training and bursaries to elevate young riders to higher standards and international participation.

“As Roosevelt wisely said, ‘We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future’.”

Edmond Mahony, Chairman of Tattersalls Ireland, expressed: “George’s passion for equestrian sports was unparalleled, especially those held at Tattersalls Ireland. The GMMF is a wonderful legacy and a fitting tribute to George’s all too short life.

The positive impact of the fund on young riders’ lives is a testament to George’s enduring influence and commitment to the sport of eventing he loved.

“All of us at Tattersalls Ireland are proud to be associated with this important contribution to youth participation in the sport of eventing.”

Roger Casey, Director of The George Mernagh Memorial Fund, added: “George’s dedication to equestrian sports and his passion for nurturing young talent were remarkable.

“It means a great deal to all involved to be able to continue and expand these supports in 2024 in his memory.

“This not only aligns with the fund’s mission, but also serves as a deeply personal tribute to his memory and a way to keep his legacy alive for future generations.”