Barry O'Neill joins Tattersalls Ireland staff

Tattersalls Ireland have appointed champion point-to-point rider Barry O’Neill as a representative on their bloodstock team and also on the inspection panel for all National Hunt sales.

Inspections have already commenced for this year's store sales, and the five-time point-to-point champion will assist the team in sourcing top quality NH horses for the group including for the Tattersalls Cheltenham Sales.

From Kiltealy in County Wexford, O'Neill’s career on the track and between the flags has seen him ride 670 winners while also creating history in 2021 when he became the first rider ever to win all four regional titles in the same season.

His partnership with champion handler and frequent Derby Sale purchaser Colin Bowe has ensured notable success in the four-year-old maiden division, partnering many future stars such as Envoi Allen.

Commenting on the appointment, Tattersalls Ireland CEO Simon Kerins said: "We are delighted to welcome Barry to the team at Tattersalls Ireland and he is an excellent addition to the bloodstock and inspection teams.

"He has a wealth of experience and knowledge on the pointing and racing fields and an expansive network of contacts which aligns very well with Tattersalls Ireland’s objectives.

"Barry’s appointment comes at an opportune time as inspections for the Derby Sale are in full swing and he will focus on securing the best store horses in the country for the world’s leading store sale.”

O'Neill said: "I am thrilled to be joining the Tattersalls Ireland team and look forward to visiting many of Tattersalls Ireland's vendors over the coming weeks. A key part of my role will be inspecting some of the best National Hunt stock in Ireland and I believe my experience riding for many leading point-to-point handlers gives me a deep understanding of what purchasers look for when buying their future winners.

"I am also looking forward to working with the Tattersalls Cheltenham team where I will be assisting sourcing horses whilst continuing in my role riding each week.

"This is an exciting time to be joining the company with the flagship Derby Sale returning record breaking figures in 2021 as well as their graduates continuing to dominate in the Grade 1 ranks."