Jim Gavin on the campaign trail
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06 Oct 2025
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06 Oct 2025
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Sean Coughlan cuts the ribbon on the Racing Legends Hall of Fame, Kildare with Jim Kavanagh, with curator of the exhibition, Photos by Lorraine O’Sullivan
The Kildare Derby Festival inducted Sean Coughlan and his wife Anne into the Hall of Fame at the Courthouse in Kildare Town. A distinguished breeder and owner, the Coughlan's legacy in the racing industry is marked by exceptional contributions.
Among their most notable achievements is breeding High Chaparral, a horse that clinched both the Epsom and Irish Derbies in 2002. Trained by Aidan O'Brien, High Chaparral's illustrious career also includes victories in the Breeders' Cup Turf in 2002 and 2003, earning him the title of U.S. Champion Male Turf Horse for two consecutive years.
Additionally, Sean bred and owned Ridgewood Pearl, a filly that made history in 1995 by winning four Group One races across four countries. Her triumphs included the Irish 1,000 Guineas, the Coronation Stakes at Royal Ascot, the Prix du Moulin at Longchamp, and the Breeders' Cup Mile at Belmont Park. Her remarkable achievements earned her European Horse of the Year and Cartier Champion Three-Year-Old Filly titles in 1995.
To commemorate his enduring impact on the sport, Sean was also honoured with a commemorative plaque in Kildare Town.
The Hall of Fame exhibition is open to the public free of charge from June 23 to June 27, 2 pm to 4 pm daily. Step into a world of racing nostalgia and celebrate the legends who have shaped the sport's rich history.
The Kildare Derby Festival, celebrating 160 years of the Irish Derby, runs from Sunday, June 22 to Sunday, June 29. Prepare for an unforgettable week packed with thrilling horse racing, electrifying live music, family fun, and the very best of Kildare’s food scene as the festival marks this monumental milestone. For more information, please visit www.kildarederbyfestival.ie
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