The welcome mat is out in Kerry
The Association of Irish Racecourses (AIR) is taking the opportunity this week through their column to shine a spotlight on Ireland’s most scenic racecourse, Killarney. Their first big race meeting of the year is their May Festival, and it will take place from Sunday, May 15th to Tuesday 17th.
Why not consider making it a staycation and enjoy all that Killarney town has to offer. There are lots of options available to experience the four festivals at Killarney Racecourse this year, from general admission tickets with ample public food and beverage offerings, free car parking and plenty of lawn and indoor seating options, to value added group packages which are complete with racecards, food and beverages.
MayFest takes place first, offering two National Hunt cards followed by an all-flat fixture. A popular occasion with locals, these three days offer a great chance to let your hair down before the tourist season really kicks off in town!
JulyFest is a real highlight on the racing and social calendar, and takes place from Monday 11th to Friday, July 15th, with a mix of National Hunt and flat meetings across the five-day fixture. There is plenty of entertainment off the track also, as Friday 15th will host the Dawn Milk best dressed lady competition.
AugustFest takes place from Thursday 18th to Saturday, August 20th. A wonderful festival to mark the last hurrah of the busy summer season in the Kingdom of Kerry, this is a great social occasion with top-class racing, and where all the fun of a festival is guaranteed in abundance.
OctoberFest is a relatively new addition to the calendar at Killarney Racecourse, and offers patrons a more relaxed weekend festival experience on Saturday
1st and Sunday, October 2nd.
Packages
The punters package can be purchased individually or as part of a group. Prices starts from €35 and includes admission and a racecard, a €10 food voucher to spend in any of the track’s outdoor or take-away options, a €5 Tote bet and a voucher for a pint or a glass of wine.
The panoramic corporate package can also be purchased individually or as part of a group. This fantastic dining option allows you to be at the heart of all the racing action, while enjoying the spectacular views from the panoramic restaurant.
Prices start from €64 and you will be wined and dined with a superb three-course meal, tea and coffee, waiter service and the Tote facilities will be at your table. There will be a fully stocked bar while you and your friends mingle with other guests on the restaurant’s private balcony.
Chairman of Killarney Racecourse, Ger Coughlan, commented: “The team here has never been more excited to welcome crowds to Killarney Racecourse, and especially this season. The pandemic really had an impact on our business and, although racing took place, it’s just not the same here without seeing packed stands and crowds enjoying all the fun and frolics of the festival that are synonymous with racing here in Kerry, at Killarney.
“Most of those coming to the festivals this year will not have been with us for two years, and for others it will be their first time. It’s important to say that we’ve been busy, working hard behind the scenes to enhance the racegoer’s experience at Killarney Racecourse and intent on offering an unrivalled, quality, boutique festival experience.”
The Association of Irish Racecourses would like to wish all the staff at Killarney the very best for their season ahead. For tickets and more information check out their social media channels and their website www.killarneyraces.ie
By Leo Powell.
