Coolmore is planning to develop, along with the Irish government, a Thoroughbred industry in China.
The British Press Association reported April 15 Coolmore will work in the city of Tianjin, where a large equine center is scheduled to open in 2013.
“We are delighted to be one of the first Irish companies to kick-start this partnership and represent Ireland’s hugely successful horse breeding and racing industries,” said J.P. Magnier of Coolmore, which also has an operation in Kentucky. “Today’s announcement marks the culmination of huge efforts by the Irish government and Department of Agriculture, led by Minister (Simon) Coveney, who have been trying to develop new Irish trade links with China.”
The Racing Post quoted Conveney as saying the partnership should spur “development of a major export market for horses from Ireland, and has the potential to provide a range of business opportunities for companies and individuals in Ireland who can bring a wide range of expertise to the project.”
The Tianjin project would have two racetracks, five training tracks, 4,000 stalls, an equine clinic, a college, and an auction facility, the Racing Post reported. About 100 mares would be shipped to China, which has been attempting to build a horse racing industry.
“The (racing and breeding) sector plays a huge part in the Irish economy, currently generating 1.1 billion euros annually,” Magnier said. “This industry is something we are good at, and one of the biggest markets in the world has recognized that and has chosen to partner with Ireland.”
The Blood-Horse in October 2011 reported that Sheikh Mohammed’s Darley operation, an international competitor to Coolmore, would send group stakes-winning stallions Jalil and Sousa to China to stand in 2012. The objective, Darley said, is to help foster development of the Thoroughbred industry in the Asian country.
“Sheikh Mohammed is eager to support the emergence of the Chinese Thoroughbred industry and is particularly pleased he can contribute to the development of the Chinese racehorse,” Darley bloodstock adviser John Ferguson said at the time.