Leopardstown Racecourse General Manager Tom Burke will retire following the running of the Irish Champion Stakes at the track on 3rd September 2011.

Tom joined the Racing Board in 1969 and became part-time Tipperary manager in 1983. He joined Leopardstown in 1986 and served as Racing Manager until 2006 when he became the General Manager.

During that period he also served as part-time Manager at Navan Racecourse for a number of years.

Burke said: “I have really enjoyed what will shortly be 42 years working in the horse racing industry. In that time I have experienced many of racing’s most memorable moments and more importantly struck up friendships that I will always cherish.

"I feel the time has now come to move on and in particular to spend more time with my family. I would like to acknowledge the support of all those in the industry with whom I came in contact over the years and in particular my work colleagues whose loyalty and advice I will forever appreciate.”

Brian Kavanagh, CEO of Horse Racing Ireland which owns Leopardstown within its Racecourse Division, said: “Tom has been one of Irish racing’s most dedicated and valued figures. He has managed through good and bad times with an air of quiet determination and integrity which has earned him the respect and confidence of all he came in contact with.

"He will be greatly missed and a very hard act to follow but we look forward to his presence as a racegoer in future where he can enjoy the spectacle without the attendant responsibility. I wish Tom a long, healthy and happy retirement in the company of his wife Cora and their family”.