I had no idea that horse racing was such a huge deal in Ireland until we visited the National Stud in County Kildare. This immense and beautifully tended property is the home of some of the finest racing horses... and their fathers. Mares can visit for purposes of insemination, which is done the old-fashioned "natural" way. And the cost of obtaining such services isn't trivial! It's a fascinating place and well worth the visit!