Eventing Ireland Youth Committee (EIYC) Receives Significant Boost from The George Mernagh Memorial Fund

The George Mernagh Memorial Fund Limited (The ‘GMMF’), established in memory of the late George Mernagh, continues to honour his lifelong dedication to equestrian sports. George began his career in horse racing as an amateur (Qualified Rider), securing 27 winners in point-to-points between 1978 and 1984. From there he then went on to be a successful professional jockey career and later became the Managing Director of Tattersalls Ireland. Renowned for his expertise in equestrian disciplines, George enjoyed significant success in three-day eventing and showing.

GMMF awarded the Eventing Ireland Youth Committee (EIYC) €40,000 for various innovative supports in 2023. This year, due to the remarkable success of the program, EIYC has been awarded an additional €20,000, increasing the total funding for 2024 to €60,000. This substantial boost will significantly benefit young riders through various channels, including subsidised Regional Training Programmes with High-Performance Trainers accessible locally to all Youth members. Bursaries are being offered to encourage riders of all levels to attend their first international event. Additionally, a one-time bursary will be awarded to an Under-25 member aspiring to turn professional, aiming to bridge the gap between youth programs and the professional sphere. There is also funding for a Youth Exchange initiative, covering a high-performance manager and team groom. The Youth Exchange travelled to Saint Quentin last year, and while the exact location for 2024 has not been decided yet, it will be an international event in the autumn. This opportunity is available to all Youth members.

Fleur Creed, Treasurer of the Eventing Ireland Youth Committee, commented: “The future of our sport lies with our youth. The alignment between GMMF's objectives and ours has been incredibly beneficial. With their generous support, we have created a pathway of training and bursaries to elevate young riders to higher standards and international participation. As Roosevelt wisely said, 'We cannot always build the future for our youth, but we can build our youth for the future."

Edmond Mahony, Chairman of Tattersalls Ireland, expressed: “George’s passion for equestrian sports was unparalleled especially those held at Tattersalls Ireland. The GMMF is a wonderful legacy and a fitting tribute to George’s all too short life. The positive impact of the fund on young riders’ lives is a testament to George’s enduring influence and commitment to the sport of eventing he loved. All of us at Tattersalls Ireland are proud to be associated with this important contribution to youth participation in the sport of eventing.”

Roger Casey, Director of The George Mernagh Memorial Fund, added: “George’s dedication to equestrian sports and his passion for nurturing young talent were remarkable. it means a great deal to all involved to be able to continue and expand these supports in 2024 in his memory. This not only aligns with the fund’s mission but also serves as a deeply personal tribute to his memory and a way to keep his legacy alive for future generations.”

For all media enquires, please contact: Mary Lanigan, Marketing Manager, Tattersalls Ireland at + 353 87 6563255 and/or Fran Rowlatt McCormick, Public Relations Officer, Eventing Ireland Youth Committee at + 0044 7912627751.