KAT and Nigel Riley of Heversham Park just recently returned from a trip to Ireland, and took in, among other sites, the Aga Khan’s Gilltown Stud, his public establishment.
The Aga Khan Studs in Ireland cover about 2,400 acres (1,000 ha) and are divided in four studs. Gilltown Stud is currently home to Champion Sea The Stars, his brother Born To Sea and dual Derby winner in 2016 Harzand.
Recently, a new stallion barn was built and the covering barn renovated. Both were designed to meet the demands of a 21st century breeding establishment.
Gilltown is a typical anglo Irish estate and was built in Georgian style in the 17th century. Gilltown House overlooks a 16 acre lake, reconstructed to its original size. This lake and its surroundings are home to a large variety of wildlife and one of the principal features of the stud is its beautiful oak avenue. Larger than life-size bronzes of the exceptional racehorses Shergar and Sinndar, sculpted by David Wynne, also form part of the peaceful scenery.
Kat got to meet (and kiss) the 2016 Investec Derby winner Harzand (headline photo) and 2009 Derby winner and great racer Sea The Stars (photo below).
