Turf Club official McGouran retires Limerick Clerk of the Course Peter McGouran retired yesterday following a career spanning 46 years with the Turf Club. McGouran joined the organisation in 1962 working at their former Dublin office base in Merrion Square before moving to the current headquarters on the Curragh in 1976. A part-time official from 1970, he became a familiar and friendly face to all in Irish racing when graduating to a full-time official 21 years ago. 'I'm 65 today and wanted to finish up at Limerick as it's a course close to my heart. I have an association of over 20 years between the old and new courses and was very involved with the planning of the new track at Greenmount Park. Like any new development, there were a few teething problems at the start but it's a fine course now,' said a proud McGouran yesterday afternoon. He has filled the role of Clerk of the Course at many tracks throughout the country including Cork, Thurles, Ballinrobe and the three Co. Kerry courses of Killarney, Listowel and Tralee, and has seen many changes over the years. 'There have been tremendous improvements at all tracks over recent years. The investment in infrastructure was greatly needed and racing is now in a much healthier state.' Typical of the man, he was at pains to thank everyone who has helped him over the years. However those kind thoughts have been reciprocated in recent months with retirement presentations made to him at a number of courses, and he was given a heartfelt round of applause as he left the Limerick weigh-room yesterday before the concluding bumper - the Slan Go Foill Peter McGouran Flat Race. Alan Magee
