Horse Racing Ireland
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Meet the team

OUR PEOPLE

Carol Nolan ▼

Carol is Horse Racing Ireland's Director of People and Industry Education. Carol established the Careers and Racing Education Department with the support of the HRI Board in spring 2015. The role has the responsibility for setting the strategy and vision for careers, education, and training for the racing and breeding industry, working in consultation with industry stakeholders, employers and individuals employed in the industry. A commitment to opening up the possibilities of a career in the racing and breeding industry to more people living, working, and studying in Ireland is at the heart of Carol's vision. 

Elaine Burke ▼

Elaine is the Equuip Manager. She works with the team to deliver on Equuip’s key aims:
  • Attracting new people to the industry by showcasing careers and opportunities available.
  • Developing our people to enhance their skills and build their careers.
  • Making sure the correct supports are available for all employers to retain their people.
Email: eburke@hri.ie

Aine O'Connor ▼

Aine is an amateur jockey who rides regularly in Ireland and the UK. She joined Equuip from RACE in 2022. Through her industry experience, she can relate to the challenges people working in racing can face. In her role she works to promote, attract, and retain people in the industry. Her duties include:
  • Supporting people within the industry to have a sustainable and successful career through upskilling and relevant training.
  • Assisting with career progression pathways.
  • Ensuring events are carried out successfully to attract new people to racing.
  • Quality control Equuip courses being delivered by third parties and educators.
  • Collaborating with youth groups and Pony Clubs to educate young people about the industry.
  • Attending race meetings to discuss Equuip-funded courses and help with queries.
Email: aoconnor@hri.ie

Stacey McDonnell ▼

Stacey leads initiatives that support and enhance the mental, physical, and workplace wellbeing of people across the Irish thoroughbred industry. Stacey has responsibility for the management and development of wellbeing and safeguarding for the National Equine Campus.

Email: smcdonnell@hri.ie
 

Stephanie Scully ▼

Stephanie has extensive experience in education, training, and curriculum development across the equine and agricultural sectors. She is passionate about creating high-quality learning opportunities that support career development and lifelong learning within the Irish racing and breeding industry.

Email: sscully@hri.ie

Alex Cairns ▼

Alex is Marketing Manager for the National Equine Campus project, which will replace RACE and become a hub for education, training, and wellbeing in Irish racing. With a background in education, marketing, and racing, Alex believes strongly in the opportunities the sport can offer. As the NEC project develops, Alex is working across Equuip, RACE, and the NEC.

Email: acairns@hri.ie