Paul Hensey Named New CEO Of The Association Of Irish Racecourses

Paul Hensey has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Irish Racecourses (AIR) and begins his role later this month. He will replace Paddy Walsh, who is retiring after over two decades in the position, on Mar. 31.

Hensey was most recently the Chief Operating Officer of Al Shaqab Racing, and he also worked with the Turf Club for six years. Previously, he also spent almost 15 years managing the Curragh Racecourse and training grounds and was also a member of AIR. He served two terms on the board of AIR during this time.

Conor O'Neill, Chairman of AIR, said, “Over the last few months, AIR has embarked on a competitive public recruitment process to find our incoming CEO. This extensive search was expertly handled on our behalf by Principal Connections–executive search who are part of Agilium Worldwide, LLC, one of the world's top global executive search groups. Following a meeting of the board of AIR this afternoon, I am delighted to announce that Paul Hensey's appointment was formally approved.

“Paul will take over the reins from Paddy Walsh when he retires from office at the end of March. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Paul on his appointment and welcome him on behalf of the board and our members. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank our outgoing CEO Paddy Walsh who has played an integral role in the association and indeed the wider industry for decades. It has been my pleasure to work alongside him during my time as Chairman of the association and although we still have plenty of work to do between now and then I wish him the very best and every good wish for his retirement.”

Hensey added, “I am delighted with the appointment and feel this role really plays to my strengths. I am extremely proud of and passionate about the Irish horse racing product and I'm very much looking forward to getting involved in the racecourse side of the industry once again. Having been a member of the Association of Irish Racecourses for many years, I am keenly aware of the importance of this association, and the role it plays for our members and I am very much looking forward to getting started.”