....but sales must be monitored to avoid a drain on the industry

HORSE Racing Ireland chief executive Brian Kavanagh has admitted the current rise in bloodstock sales must be monitored to avoid a drain on the Irish horse racing industry.

HRI estimate a rise in the value of Irish-foaled export horses from €146.9m in 2010 to €156.5m in 2011 — a6.5% jump — but are aware the country must hold on to some high-quality horses.

“Yes it’s a balancing act,” Kavanagh told the Irish Examiner.