Top racing action and family fun for Kildare people as Curragh Racecourse returns on Sunday

The Curragh Racecourse is set to launch its much-anticipated 2025 season, offering world-class racing, exceptional hospitality, and an unforgettable atmosphere for both seasoned racing enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

The season opener on Sunday, 16th March will mark the beginning of an action-packed calendar, featuring some of Ireland’s most prestigious races, including the Tattersalls Irish 2,000 and 1,000 Guineas, the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby, the Juddmonte Irish Oaks and the Comer Group International Irish St. Leger - all at the Kildare track.

With a stellar lineup of top horses, jockeys, and trainers, this year’s racing is set to be as competitive and thrilling as ever.

Following a highly successful 2024, which saw 70 individual trainers secure race victories at the Curragh, the 2025 season promises another exciting line up of race meetings, with a total prize pool approaching €15 million. This includes significant increases across various handicaps, in addition to boosts to the values of Listed and Group 3 races.

Exciting race sponsorship announcements are expected in the coming weeks, as the Curragh continues its goal of achieving 100% commercial sponsorship for all of its races. Notably, Paddy Power will become the new title sponsor of the prestigious Group 1 Pretty Polly Stakes, while the Tote will sponsor a new Spring Series, incorporating the first four race days of the season.

Brian Kavanagh, CEO of The Curragh, said “We are delighted to welcome racing fans back to The Curragh for what promises to be another exhilarating season. The 2025 season will bring world-class racing, enhanced experiences for spectators, and a celebration of everything that puts the Curragh at the heart of Irish flat racing.”

Beyond the racing, The Curragh is committed to enhancing the visitor experience, with upgraded facilities, multiple dining options, and live entertainment throughout the season. Families, groups of friends, and dedicated racing fans alike can look forward to an electric atmosphere and a festive experience throughout the season.

Sunday 16th March

The St. Patrick’s Festival Race Day, on 16th March, will usher in the season with the exciting Nua Healthcare Irish Lincolnshire Premier Handicap as the feature race. Off the track, visitors can enjoy a variety of free family-friendly entertainment throughout the day, including live music from the Naas Hospital Choir and performances from traditional Irish musicians, Ceili Cottage. The Moyglare Kids Zone will feature a range of activities for younger racegoers, including glitter tattooing and storytelling from the Talking Tree. Families will also have the chance to meet Patches the Friendly Leprechaun, who loves a good photo op!

With thrilling racing, fantastic entertainment, and an unbeatable atmosphere, the 2025 season at The Curragh is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience for all.

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