Michael O Rourke, Horse Racing Ireland’s Director of Marketing and Communications, has announced his intention to leave the organisation to pursue a career as an independent marketing and communications consultant.
O’Rourke was appointed to Horse Racing Ireland shortly after its foundation in 2001 and prior to that had worked in the Turf Club and Curragh Racecourse from 1992.
He has been a significant player in the Irish sponsorship world having been part of securing and managing relationships with Budweiser and Dubai Duty Free at the Irish Derby as well as Longines at the Irish Champions Weekend of which he himself was a major champion.
A long time supporter of Sport for Business he has been a regular attendee at our events and a good friend.
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“It has always been my intention to work as an independent consultant and now is the right time to do so,” he said yesterday.
“I have been fortunate to have worked in Irish Racing for 25 years and could not have wished for a more stimulating and rewarding career.”
“Working in the racing industry has introduced me to a lot of very talented and dedicated people. I wish my colleagues in Horse Racing Ireland every success at what is a very exciting time for the industry.”
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Brian Kavanagh, HRI’s Chief Executive, paid tribute to O’Rourke saying “I would like to thank Michael for his service to racing for more than a quarter of a century.”
“He has been an invaluable part of the senior management team here at HRI and prior to that at the Curragh. He has created a series of marketing campaigns to increase attendances at Irish race meetings and develop interest in the sport.”
“He led the Strategic Marketing Review Group Report into attendances at Irish race meetings, in addition to being CEO of the racecourse division for four years.”
“Michael has been a valued friend and colleague for many years and I am sure that he will remain a familiar face at race meetings in the future. I wish him every success in his new venture.”
