Expo to tackle all your breeding queries

The Irish Thoroughbred Breeders' Association will hold its Expo 2010 in Goffs, Kill, Co Kildare, on Friday and Saturday, January 29 and 30.

First run two years ago, when more than 2,500 visitors attended the inaugural event, the two-day event will house more than 80 stands from equestrian industry companies showcasing technology, products, equipment and services available to the thoroughbred industry.

In addition, the expo will host several seminars covering a range of industry-related topics, such as business, veterinary, nutrition and farriery.

Of particular interest to students will be the seminar 'Education -- a Route to Employment', which will feature speakers from An Gaisce, Darley Flying Start, Maynooth University, RACE, Enniskillen Campus and Naas Racecourse.

Breeders will be particularly interested in numerous talks covering the importance of nutrition, foal size, pasture management and wind problems.

The highlight of the expo is the National Hunt and International Symposiums, both taking place on Friday, January 29.

Trainers

The National Hunt Symposium, 'National Hunt Racing and Breeding -- The Way Forward', is scheduled to take place from 3.30-5.30pm and will feature leading UK and Irish National Hunt trainers, breeders and consigners.

The International Symposium, 'The Future of European Racing', takes place from 6-8pm, when the topic will be debated by a panel of industry experts from Ireland, the UK, France and Germany.

The ITBA Expo 2010 takes place at Goffs from 10.30am-8pm on the Friday and 10.30am-6pm on the Saturday. Entry costs €10, including brochure and entry to all seminars. OAPs and students with valid ID can enter free of charge.

For more information, visit www.itba.ie or call 045 877 543.