The Curragh opened its doors for the first time this year in preparation for the opening weekend of their 2017 season on 13th and 14th May, when they staged a test race day to fulfil Turf Club licencing requirements on Thursday morning.
Those in attendance were shown the facilities which have been put in place for this season including the refurbished stable yard, while a small group of horses galloped on the track over 6 and 12 furlongs.
Speaking at the open day this morning, Curragh-based trainer Willie McCreery says
“I was impressed by the layout and facilities which I viewed for the first time today and it was good to see that the track is in great condition. I am looking forward to having runners throughout the season with hopefully some winners amongst them.”
Bernard Caldwell Chairman of the Irish Stable Staff Association said
“The team at the Curragh have done an excellent job with the refurbishment of the stable yard which has certainly been restored to its former glory and I am confident will enhance the experience for stable staff this year.”
With the O’Brien’s Champagne & Wine Bar as the only permanent facility remaining in place this season as the development project progresses positively, the final touches are being put to impressive high quality marquee structures which will be place until the development project is completed by the end of 2018.
The structures will feature the Grand Hall with Tote, Paddy Power Betting Shop, Sports Lounge and food and beverage area and an Owners & Trainers facility which will be available for connections of runners on the day to enjoy a complimentary meal, together with an imposing Hospitality Marquee over two levels with magnificent views across the racecourse to feature two restaurants with capacity for 250 people each, a Premier Members Lounge and an exclusive area for feature race sponsors.
In addition, there will be an Artisan Food Village featuring some of Kildare’s leading food producers and a Race Track Viewing Stand with a capacity for 1500 people, together with numerous screens which will be located throughout the enclosure for additional viewing. The Weigh Room has been relocated to what was previously the main entrance building, while the pre parade and parade ring will remain in place for the 2017 season.
For more details, check out curragh.ie.
