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.