Curragh launches art competition with big prizes on offer
Entries must be submitted by Monday, September 14
The Curragh Racecourse is inviting photographers and artists to showcase their creativity as two popular competitions return this autumn.
The 2026 Photography Competition, “Beyond the Finish Line”, is being run in partnership with Bermingham Cameras, while the “Artist of the Curragh” competition returns for 2026-2027.
Both competitions will culminate at a special celebration of Creativity at The Curragh on Goffs Million Raceday on Saturday, September 26, when this year’s winners will be announced.
The photography competition is open to amateur photographers and is seeking images capturing the emotional side of Irish racing, from the intensity of training and race days to quieter moments between horses and people.
Entries must be submitted by Monday, September 14. The overall winner will receive a Canon Pixma G4511 printer valued at €300, while two runners-up will each receive a Canon Selphy QX10 printer valued at €170.
The competition will again be judged by Brian Whelan, owner of Bermingham Cameras.
Last year’s winner was local amateur photographer Paul Dempsey, whose photograph of Big Gossey captured the power and character of the racehorse.
Meanwhile, artists from across County Kildare are being invited to apply for the 2026-2027 Artist of the Curragh competition.
Applicants must submit an example of their work along with a statement of no more than 100 words explaining why they should be selected.
Five finalists will be invited to The Curragh on Goffs Million Raceday to create a live painting of the race day.
The winning artist will receive a €1,500 commission from The Curragh, with their completed artwork also displayed at the racecourse.
Last year’s winner, Isabelle Smith, was praised for her vibrant depiction of The Curragh, capturing the movement and atmosphere of race day.
Ruth Norton, Marketing Manager at The Curragh Racecourse, said the competitions celebrate “the creativity that thrives around Irish racing” and the connection people have with their horses.
Entries for Artist of the Curragh close on Friday, September 18.
For the photography competition, entries can be submitted through the Curragh website.
Artists should email their sample artwork and statement to [email protected] with “Artist of the Curragh” in the subject line.