PADRAIG McManus stepped down as chairman of Curragh Racecourse Limited this week after nine years in the role. He is succeeded by Con Cronin.

McManus was appointed chairman of the newly established company in 2015 and guided the Curragh redevelopment from concept to completion.

Cronin has a background in commercial property and is currently executive chairman of Avison Young in Ireland.

From Kerry, he has enjoyed success as a racehorse owner, most notably with GVA Ireland and Miss Xian.

McManus said: “It has been a pleasure to serve as chairman of the Curragh and to be involved with such a significant project for Irish racing and for Co Kildare. There are so many people who contributed to the redevelopment of the Curragh and together we have delivered a modern facility that Irish racing can be proud of.”

Cronin said: “Racing is a great passion of mine, and I am honored to take up the position as chairman of the Curragh.

“I must pay tribute to the wonderful work done by Padraig in bringing the Curragh to where it is today. His vision and leadership have been of great benefit to Irish horse racing, and I am looking forward to working with the team at the Curragh to continue the growth and development of both the racecourse and the training grounds.”