Off to Waterford

Monday July 29

Another nice breakfast and on the bus for an 0800 kickoff.

First stop is the Irish National Stud in County Kildare. It was established in 1900 by Colonel William Hall Walker, who had three interests in common with the King. Horse racing, cards, and his wife. 

Col. Walker also had a great interest in astrology, to the point that it dictated which horses would race, which horses would mate, and which horses would do neither. Despite his ‘creative’ decision-making policies, he became very successful in this line of business. It grew to become one of the most successful stud farms in the world. 

When he returned to live in England, he donated all of his assets and lands in Ireland to the Irish government. 

The stud is still one of the most successful racing stud farms in the word. It is also the only one that is owned by the Government and it’s people.

Next was the port town of Waterford. A tour of the famous Crystal factory was an interesting peek into the craftsmanship involved in creating what will often become a family heirloom. 

We’re about to go for a wander around the rest of this town before dinner.

Well that didn’t happen. The rain popped in for a visit. We had dinner in the pub where we’re staying.

It’s called Dooley’s. Nicely renovated old building.