Retired Champion Beef or Salmon to celebrate his 30th birthday
Ahead of his milestone 30th birthday, National Hunt legend Beef or Salmon reunited with his former jockeys Paul Carberry and Andrew McNamara at the Irish National Stud & Gardens, where he enjoys his retirement. Visitors are invited to join the official celebrations with Beef or Salmon on 30th April from 11am–12pm to hear more about this remarkable horse and mark his special birthday. For further information and to purchase tickets, visit www.irishnationalstud.ie Photo: Conor Healy / Picture It Photography
The Irish National Stud & Gardens is honoured to celebrate a remarkable milestone this month as Beef or Salmon, one of Ireland’s most iconic and enduring National Hunt champions, marks his 30th birthday on the 30th of April. Visitors are invited to join in the birthday celebrations taking place from 11am - 12pm at the Stud, with a special birthday cake. This event coincides with the Punchestown Racing Festival, the scene of two of his most significant career victories, the Grade 1 John Durkan Memorial Chase (2003) and the Grade 1 Punchestown Gold Cup (2004), performances that cemented his place among the greats of Irish racing.
Trained by Michael Hourigan, Beef or Salmon enjoyed a glittering career spanning more than a decade, recording 19 wins, including 10 Grade 1 victories, and famously defeating some of the most celebrated champions of his era including Best Mate, War of Attrition and Hedgehunter. His Leopardstown and Punchestown triumphs remain among his most cherished achievements, showcasing the determination and power that made him a household name. After his racing career he also went on to perform exceptionally in the show ring at the prestigious Dublin Horse Show and beyond.
Beef or Salmon is now a treasured member of The Living Legends, and over 2 million visitors have appreciated him in his retirement at the Irish National Stud & Gardens since 2012.
Cathal Beale, CEO at the Irish National Stud & Gardens, said: “Beef or Salmon is a true icon of Irish racing. Reaching 30 years of age is an exceptional milestone for any thoroughbred, and it’s a privilege to care for him and share him with the public. Celebrating his birthday during the Punchestown Festival, and hearing such heartfelt stories from those who knew him best, makes this moment even more special. We know racing fans will join us in honouring a horse who gave so much to the sport.”
Guests are invited for a special day on Thursday the 30th of April for Beefy’s big birthday. As well as this, visitors can meet the other Living Legends during the Punchestown Festival from Tuesday to Friday, 11am - 12pm, when they will be on parade outside their paddocks with Leona who cares for them.
For further information and to purchase tickets online, please visit www.irishnationalstud.ie
