David Abbott, who has led the Association of Irish Riding Clubs for the past 21 years, is to step down from his role later this month.

The Director General will finish with the Association on Friday 24th May next and said, “it’s time for ventures new after such a long time with the organisation as I’ll be embarking on a new role from next month. I’d like to thank everyone who helped me along the way, there’s far too many people to mention individually.”

Mr Abbott oversaw significant change within the Association over the years which moved from a volunteer-led office to a more professional setting. There were significant changes with the introduction of the Association’s Membership Online portal which brought everything online including entries and horse registrations which were linked to a member’s account.

In recent years, David led the project of transforming the grading system in conjunction with an advisory group which broadened the competition structures to give greater flexibility for members to compete at various levels within the Association.

He also oversaw the introduction of many new initiatives such as the Grassroots Jump Training Series in recent years.

In recent years, he also oversaw the implementation of a new digital membership card.

The Association was also able to accumulate significant reserves during his tenure and is financially secure.  In recent years, he secured significant funding of €170,000 for the Association through various support schemes.

Louise Duffy, chair of the Board of Directors said’ “David has played an integral part in the development and success of the organisation over the past 21 years. Within his role, he has been a leader, mentor and a friend to many.  He is an experienced professional, and a person of great integrity and will be very much missed by the Association. We wish David every success in his new endeavours.”