GODOLPHIN Ireland held a thoroughbred industry breeding sector experience for teenagers aged 16 to 18 at Kildangan Stud on Wednesday.

The purpose of the event was to give participants a chance to learn more about the thoroughbred industry and the career opportunities within. A total of 20 participants from counties Kildare, Cork, Mayo, Laois and Westmeath attended.

The morning session included a stud tour with insights into the operation of mare and foal yards, foaling unit management, land management and an overview of Godolphin Ireland’s environmental sustainability initiatives.

The group also observed reproductive vet Ellen Riordan and were lucky enough to see her scan a mare in foal at 14 days and the heartbeat of a 33-day pregnancy.

A stallion show which included Darley stallions Space Blues, Ghaiyyath, Blue Point and Night Of Thunder also formed part of the morning schedule.

In the afternoon Godolphin Ireland employees gave an insight into their career development, as well as an overview of the diverse roles available at the company.

The panellists were Martina Dempsey (Godolphin Flying Start), Emma McLoughlin (Kildangan Stud horse crew) and Joe Osborne.

The day concluded with foal and yearling inspections and a conformation lecture with Godolphin Ireland Stud director Jimmy Hyland which was a comprehensive overview of how Godolphin stock is managed from birth to the racetrack.

If you or someone you know would like to be informed of future Godolphin events, contact Godolphin Ireland education initiatives manager Ciara Devitt at cdevitt@godolphin.com.