Breaking News: Legendary Tipperary Horse Trainer’s Historic Estate Up for Sale at €3.25M
The iconic Killeens property, synonymous with renowned horse trainer Edward O’Grady, is hitting the market with an asking price of €3.25M. Nestled in the Golden Vale of Tipperary, the exquisite five-bedroom Georgian country house and its extensive training facilities are now available through Sherry Fitzgerald Country Homes. The estate, which includes 207 acres of land with stables, gallops, and other training facilities, has been the birthplace and lifelong haven of one of Ireland’s leading racehorse trainers.
Understanding the Future of Horse Training: Edward O’Grady’s Historic Estate Offers a Glimpse into the Past and Present
Edward O’Grady’s Estate: A Phenomenal Life in Horse Racing
Known for his legendary training skills, Edward O’Grady spent his entire life dedicated to the sport. Born in 1949 at Killeens, his family home in Ballynonty, Co Tipperary, O’Grady spent 75 years of his life honing his craft and making history.
O’Grady’s father, Willie O’Grady, a champion jockey and respected trainer, bought the property in 1948. The estate became the lifelong haven and training ground for the legendary trainer.
Killeens, the five-bedroom Georgian country house, sits on 207 acres with over 760 horse boxes, gallops, a sand arena, and turnout arenas. O’Grady trained all of his horses, including Tranquil Sea, Sacundai, and Golden Cygnet, on this extensive land.
The Heart of Horse Country: A Glimpse into the Past and Present
Set on limestone soil that drains well, Killeens is an ideal location for training horses year-round. The property includes a limestone kiln in one of the fields, a testament to its rich history.
The grounds extend to extensive stables, a yard, a staff flat, and office spaces. Russell, O’Grady’s third wife, shares, “It’s the finest gallops in Ireland. Edward created long distance gallops, all-weather gallops, and different types of gallops. It meant he could train different types of horses, and the variety kept the horses’ minds fresh.”
Picturesque viewscomplete the idyllic setting. “The views of the surrounding mountains from the top of the gallop here are just staggering, and there’s not another house in sight,” says Russell.
A Legendary Life: Edward O’Grady’s Unforgettable Moments
In 1974, O’Grady won the Cheltenham Gold Cup with Mr. Midland, ridden by the renowned jockey, Mouse Morris. This victory marked the beginning of O’Grady’s successful career in horse racing.
However, the same year, O’Grady was involved in an elaborate betting coup by an Irish syndicate at Cartmel racecourse in Cumbria. Their plan, known as ‘Murphy’s Stroke,’ aimed to clean out the English bookies and earn an estimated £1m.
The group, including O’Grady and three other men, was arrested by the British police after the ultimately futile attempt. In retrospect, Russell comments humorously on the incident, saying, “Edward was quietly pleased to be played by Pierce Brosnan in the movie ‘Murphy’s Stroke.’ In fact, at one stage years ago, Brosnan kept horses here at Killeens.”
A fiasco it may have been, O’Grady’s career flourishedNevertheless. He went on to become one of Ireland’s most successful racehorse trainers, with all of his horses trained at Killeens. O’Grady passed away last July at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire the world of horse racing.
The Future of Horse Training: Killeens as a Beacon of Hope
With its expansive facilities, idyllic location, and rich history, Killeens offers an unparalleled opportunity for aspiring and seasoned trainers alike. “This is real horse country,” says Russell. “Coolmore Stud is a five-minute drive away, and Ballydoyle Stables with Aidan O’Brien is about 25 minutes by car.”
Despite its peaceful rural setting, Killeens is conveniently located just 18 minutes by car to Thurles town and 20 minutes from Cashel. The property also has potential to expand further by acquiring the adjacent three-bedroom residence, Lanespark, which could serve as an ideal manager’s house or additional staff accommodation.
The property’s proximity to urban areas and extensive facilities make it an appealing choice for both professional trainers and enthusiasts looking to establish their own training centers.
Q&A: Frequently Asked Questions about Killeens
What is the total acreage of the property?
Killeens sits on 207 acres of land.
How many horse boxes are there on the property?
There are 760 horse boxes available at Killeens.
What are the property’s exact coordinates?
The property’s GPS coordinates are 52.3843° N, 7.7555° W.
How far is the property from Thurles town and Cashel?
Killeens is 18 minutes by car to Thurles town and 20 minutes from Cashel.
Pro Tip: Inspect the Property Thoroughly to Ensure It Meets Your Needs
Before making an offer on the property, ensure you inspect it thoroughly. Consider visiting the property at different times of the day to assess how the natural light changes and impacts the training environment.
Additionally, evaluate the property’s suitability for your specific training needs. If you plan to train a particular breed or have specific horse training goals, ensure the facilities and land at Killeens align with your objectives.
Call-to-Action: Discover Your New Training Ground Today
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own a piece of horse racing history. Schedule a visit to Killeens today and explore the endless possibilities that this remarkable property offers for your horse training endeavors. Contact Sherry Fitzgerald Country Homes at (01) 63993000 to arrange your private viewing.
With its rich history, extensive facilities, and idyllic location, Killeens is the perfect property for horse enthusiasts and professional trainers alike. Don’t let this unique opportunity pass you by – inquire about Killeens today and start your journey towards a successful horse racing future.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The accuracy of the information is not guaranteed, and the article is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions related to property purchases or horse training.