Horse Sport Ireland Pays Tribute to Eamonn P. Egan

Horse Sport Ireland is deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic passing of Eamonn P. Egan, who died following a farming accident at his home in Maynooth on Monday 2^nd June 2025.

Eamonn was a long-standing and much-valued contributor to the Irish equestrian community, and in particular to Horse Sport Ireland, where he served with distinction in a number of governance roles.

Following the publication of the Indecon Review, Eamonn was appointed Chair of the HSI Audit & Risk Committee, guiding the organisation through a period of critical transition. Most recently, he remained an active member of the committee, providing ongoing oversight and advice with characteristic diligence and generosity of spirit. He brought with him vast professional experience, a calm and principled approach, and a deep commitment to sport horse sector.

Eamonn gave his time and expertise voluntarily, and always with a clear focus on doing what was right for the sector. He was a true champion of good governance, insisting on high standards, clear accountability, and ethical leadership in all matters. His presence and advice to the HSI executive team was instrumental in strengthening the foundations of Horse Sport Ireland, and his legacy in this regard will endure. The Board of Horse Sport Ireland, appointed in 2022 under the chairmanship of Michael Dowling, deeply valued Eamonn’s wise counsel, steady support, and generosity of spirit during a critical period of organisational change and renewal.

His contribution went beyond governance. Eamonn played a leading role on the HSI Insurance Working Group, helping shape a strategic solution to one of the most significant challenges facing equestrian activity in Ireland. Thanks to his insight, persistence, and leadership, the organisation successfully launched HSI Club, which provides as part of the membership insurance protection for thousands of leisure and recreational riders across the country. It stands as one of the most tangible and lasting legacies of his time with Horse Sport Ireland.

A former amateur jockey, Eamonn remained deeply connected to horses and the sport throughout his life. His passion for the Irish horse was evident in every discussion, and he was a strong believer in uniting sporting governance with grassroots participation to ensure the sector’s sustainability and future growth.

Eamonn also held senior roles in the business community, notably as Chief Executive of Lloyd’s Ireland and as President of the South Dublin Chamber, where he was a recognised voice for enterprise, reform, and responsible leadership.

More than anything, Eamonn will be remembered within HSI for his kindness, his humour, and his humanity. His visits to the Naas office were always greeted with warmth, and his support for staff and management was always at hand. He was generous with his time, good fun, and always ready to lift spirits when challenges arose.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Eamonn’s children, his extended family, and all who knew and loved him.

We are proud to have worked alongside him. His contribution to Horse Sport Ireland, and to the wider equestrian community, was profound.

Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis.