Two of the biggest names in Irish horse racing are soon to unite as there’s a wedding on the way!
Kate Harrington, trainer Jessica’s daughter, is engaged to her long-time partner, Gordon Elliott, after years of dating.
The couple, who are both jockeys-turned-trainers, have long been an item and are often seen at races and meets.
Kate Harrington with her mother Jessica. Pic: INPHO/James Crombie
Confirming the happy news to EVOKE, Kate said: ‘We’re all very happy.’
Not much is known about the couple’s relationship; however, both Kate and Gordon have built successful careers.
Both started out as riders before moving into training, with Kate also trying her hand at TV presenting.
Kate is now greatly involved in her family’s business, working alongside her mum Jessica, sister, Emma, and brother-in-law Richie Galway.
Trainer Gordon Elliott. Pic: Sportsfile
The Harrington family operation has around 120 to 130 racehorses, with Emma looking after much of the accounts and staffing side, while Kate is more hands-on with the horses and day-to-day logistics
She recently spoke with EVOKE about working with her legendary horse trainer mum and joked she’d never dare tell Jessica, 79, to slow down.
Gordon Elliott and Kate Harrington. Pic: Healy Racing
Kate said: ‘She’s a force to be reckoned with and always will be… she battled breast cancer three years ago and came out the other side; she’s had two new knees, and sure, not a bother on her.
‘I’d say next year she could run a marathon, set herself a new task.’
Kate Harrington with her mother Jessica Harrington. Pic: INPHO/James Crombie
As for Kate’s husband-to-be, Gordon wrote himself into the history books at the age of 29 when he became the youngest trainer to win the Grand National.
After his Grand National success in 2019, Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary sang his praises, saying: ‘Gordon is the answer to everyone else who says you need to have luck or relations or money.
Gordon Elliott. Pic: INPHO/Tom O’Hanlon
‘He proves you just need to work incredibly hard, and he delivers extraordinary results.’
The couple has kept a largely low profile in recent years; however, this week the news broke that they were engaged and champagne bottles were popping.