Burke visits racing facility on trade mission to Japan

Minister of State Peter Burke visited the Japan Racing Association Miho Training facility with Ambassador Paul Kavanagh and met with Harry Sweeney, on his trade mission to Japan and South Korea for St Patrick’s Day.

Minister Burke has a strong interest in horse racing and Westmeath has international links in relation to breeding and training, and he was eager to strengthen these local and national links.

The horse racing industry in Ireland generates millions of euro annually and provides significant levels of employment in places like the midlands, so Minister Burke was eager to spend time to foster future engagement between the two countries.

Speaking from Japan, he said: “I led an engaging bilateral with the president of the Japan Racing Association (JRA), Masayuki Goto. We discussed the potential for more Japanese horses to come and compete in Ireland, especially for Champions Weekend, which would be beneficial for Ireland.

“The experience of [Japanese mare] Deirdre finishing fourth in the Champion Stakes can provide a strong catalyst for more Japanese runners on Irish soil.

“The president previously met Aidan O’Brien, who sent Broome and Japan to the last running of the Japan Cup, and is eager to progress initiatives of mutual benefit for both our countries.

“I also invited the president to Ireland again and I know he’s interested in coming with a delegation to the Irish Derby.”