Breeding Course

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Introduction

The first Thoroughbred Breeding course was held in the Irish National Stud in 1971 and it remains the best-known equine training programme to this day.

The aim of the course is to educate young people for a career in the breeding industry, although graduates have also been prominent in racehorse training, bloodstock sales and insurance and the media. Many of the best-known studs worldwide are owned and managed by graduates from Tully and still send students to the course on a scholarship basis. Three graduates have gone on to train Breeders' Cup winners: Eoin Harty, Frank Lyons and, in 2006, Brian Meehan.

Course Content

Unlike University based programmes, our training is mainly of a practical nature and is designed to provide students with a hands-on approach to every aspect of horse breeding. The course starts in February each year and involves yard work during the day and a lecture each evening, culminating in exams and prize giving in July. Students rotate around the yards on a weekly basis and also spend time in the stallion barn, foaling unit and laboratory.

Lectures are given by the stud staff and others involved in the bloodstock industry. The syllabus varies slightly from year to year but generally covers all aspects of the science and art of horse breeding. In the latter part of the course visits are arranged to other stud farms, racing stables, sales companies etc., and students are encouraged to follow the progress of Irish and International racing and breeding during the season.

Location/Facilities

The Irish National Stud is set on approximately 1000 acres of land, just outside of Kildare town, which is 40 miles south west of Dublin. The stud and adjoining Japanese Gardens is a popular tourist destination, attracting almost 150,000 visitors each year. The course is full-time residential, so all students are accommodated on the farm with meals provided in our own canteen by professional staff. There is also a TV room, pool table, tennis court and badminton hall.

Qualifications/Job Prospects

Written, oral and practical exams are held at the end of the course and successful candidates receive the Irish National Stud certificate which is well recognised throughout the bloodstock world.

A small number of students may be employed by the stud at the end of each course and some of these go on to become yard managers. There is always a huge demand for graduates of the course from other studs in this country and abroad and while job placement is not guaranteed, we can usually help to find employment within the industry.

Applications

An application form is available on-line or can be obtained from the stud, with details and fees which may be payable. Completed forms should be submitted by November 1st and final selection takes place in December for the following January/February.

Please e-mail for further details: stud@irish-national-stud.ie