ATHLONE Institute of Technology’s decision to end its Business In Equine courses was described by Gurteen College principal Mike Pearson as “a loss for the industry.” Both the Certificate and Honours Degree course modules were divided between Gurteen College, near Roscrea and the Athlone campus.

The course was designed to train student for numerous careers in the equine industry including stud farm and competition yard management, administration, bloodstock sales, competition riders and sport horse producers. Past graduates include US-based event rider Tim Bourke, show horse producer Linda Murphy and several Horse Sport Ireland employees, including Nadia Rea Byrne and Donna Craig.

“I’m sad to see this course discontinued, this course will be greatly missed by all young equine enthusiasts and entrepreneurs,” commented HSI Studbook Sales and Promotions Executive Nadia Rea. “The knowledge provided by both Gurteen staff and the guest lecturers, (which were some of the most prominent figures in today’s equine industry) was second to none, while Athlone IT taught how to turn a passion for horses into a successful business.”

A spokesperson for Athlone IT confirmed that the decision was made due to the falling number of applicants for the course. “The numbers that have been applying has consistently dropped in recent years,” said the spokesperson.

“There’s no denying that that is the case,” said Gurteen College principal Mike Pearson, “but I do think that 13 to 15 students per year on a course should make it viable. It is down to funding pressures and I’m very aware that the IT are under funding pressure and particularly with their drive for a technological university status. It’s no blame as such on anybody but it’s a loss for the industry.”

“I think it’s a great pity the course is no longer running,” continued Pearson. “It was a decision made by Athlone Institute of Technology, not Gurteen College. The industry has a demand for students of this type, albeit that recruitment has dropped at this point.”

AG CourseS NOT AFFECTED

Pearson was keen to emphasise that other agricultural courses at Gurteen College are unaffected.

“This is no threat to Gurteen College, which goes from strength to strength in agricultural courses. It’s just the equine course that’s fallen by the wayside. I’ve looked at all kinds of ways to fund the course but it has to be funded through proper education routes.”

Pearson explained how the course will wind down. “What’s happening is in June this year, Gurteen College closes its doors to Equine students,” adding that any practical elements for students, who are mainly based in Athlone for Years 2 and 3, will now take place at a Midlands riding establishment. “That is the intention how the course will finish out.”