An exciting season of racing at Ballinrobe Racecourse starts this month. Photo: Healy Racing

Ballinrobe Racecourse in south Mayo gears up for an exciting 2024 season

Ballinrobe Racecourse has announced an exciting full programme of racing for the 2024 season.

Following its recognition as the Racecourse of the Year in 2023, Ballinrobe has continued its commitment to excellence with ongoing enhancements and preparations throughout the winter months.

John Flannelly, racecourse manager, expressed his excitement for the upcoming season, stating: “We finished 2023 on a high note, winning Racecourse of the Year. We haven't rested on our laurels; instead, we've had a very busy winter focusing on development and planning for 2024.”

Mr. Flannelly continued: “We've built a new stable staff canteen, upgraded our winners' hospitality bar, and provided more space in the jockeys' changing room. We continue to strive to meet the needs of all those involved in racing, from racegoers to trainers, jockeys and owners.”

The season kicks off with a Friday evening National Hunt meeting on April 19, featuring the popular Fantastic Friday Special, offering a great value group deal. The first race goes to post at 5.08 p.m. This sets the stage for an exciting season ahead, filled with great racing and unforgettable experiences.

A highlight of the season is the McHale Raceday, headlined by the prestigious McHale Mayo National, now with a staggering prize fund of €100,000.

Chairman Kenneth Murphy and the Ballinrobe race committee wish to sincerely thank their neighbours, McHale, for their continued support, which makes such a spectacular event possible.

Mr. Murphy commented: “McHale have continued to support us year on year. In 2020, the McHale Mayo National became our first ever listed race and now it is worth fantastic prize-money. That would not have been possible without the support of McHale.”

Ladies Day returns on Monday, June 24, generously sponsored once again by The Lodge at Ashford Castle.

July will see the excitement soar with the July Festival, featuring a line-up of great racing and entertainment for all. Families are invited to attend for Family Day on Monday, July 22, where a host of free activities awaits the children. The excitement continues on Tuesday, July 23, with the Mike Denver Race Dance – a fantastic blend of racing and entertainment in conjunction with the Ballinrobe Festival.

As always, there are two popular Monday evening meetings, on August 12 and 26. Finally, Friday, September 13, will close out the season on a high note with a thrilling evening meeting.

The full list of 2024 fixtures is as follows: Friday, April 19; Tuesday, May 7; Monday and Tuesday, May 27 and 28; Monday, June 24; Monday and Tuesday, July 22 and 23; Monday, August 12; Monday, August 26; Friday, September 13.

For tickets and group packages, including the exclusive Coranna Restaurant package, visit the Ballinrobe Racecourse website at www.ballinroberacecourse.ie. Keep up to date with all the latest news on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok and X.

The team at Ballinrobe Racecourse is excited to welcome racegoers, enthusiasts and families for what promises to be an exhilarating and unforgettable 2024 season.