Brian Kavanagh, Chief Executive of Horse Racing Ireland, has been confirmed as the new Chairman of the European Pattern Committee (EPC), succeeding Tristram Ricketts, who is leaving his position as British Horseracing Board Secretary General to return to the Horserace Betting Levy Board as Chief Executive.

Kavanagh will take up the appointment on 1st October, while BHB will retain its Secretariat function for the EPC.

Kavanagh, 41 and a chartered accountant, joined the Turf Club in 1989 as its financial controller, leaving in the mid-1990s to become manager of the Curragh racecourse. He was appointed as Chief Executive of Horse Racing Ireland in October 2001, having occupied the same position with the Irish Turf Club for the previous two years.

Brian Kavanagh said: “I look forward to working with all of the countries represented on the European Pattern Committee to ensure the quality of Group and Listed races in Europe is of the highest standard in an increasingly international racing calendar.”

Outgoing Chairman Tristram Ricketts, who has held the post since 1993, added: “That I have greatly enjoyed my twelve years as Independent Chairman is largely due to the support which I have had from all the international experts on the Committee.

The European Pattern is in rude health, with the top races providing quality competitive spectacles. The successful initiative last year to enhance the programme for older fillies and mares shows what can be achieved when Europe works constructively and imaginatively together.

I am delighted to be handing over to Brian Kavanagh. Brian is a first-class administrator and I am very confident that under his guidance the European Pattern will continue to meet the challenges ahead. I wish him and all the members well.”

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